When it comes to a luxurious-looking home, budget is only part of the picture. The rest is about maximizing those dollars using colour, creativity and these tricks of the trade.
As a designer, colour is my most powerful decorating tool. I use it to make a big impact, for the low cost of a can of paint. To incorporate colour without the commitment, infuse the hottest hues through your artwork, accessories and pillows. This lets you stay on top of the trends without breaking the bank.
Scrimping and saving is one thing, but even the most frugal makeovers benefit from a splurge or two. Flooring and countertops tend to be high-impact, because they occupy big visual areas. In these cases, it’s worth spending a little more on something you love. The same applies to kitchen cabinets and bathroom tile. But buyer beware, there are varying degrees of “splurges” so shop around, wait for sales, and work with a knowledge able designer like myself who knows where to purchase the leading products today.
When choosing your finishes, consider their staying power. Simple, crisp lines and classic details have longevity, and they will remain a great asset to your home for many years to come, regardless of what’s trending that season.
My Design Tip : For kitchens and bathrooms, white is a widespread palette of choice, and for good reason! It boasts wide appeal, which is great for resale value. It’s also versatile, and easy to work with and accessorize as trends evolve over time.
The next step in the decorating process is furnishing your home. Be selective and consider the scale of your selections. The popularity of condo living has given rise to a new problem in the world of interiors: oversized furnishings. Pieces that are too large make a room feel cramped . On the flip side, pieces that are too small will make your home look under-furnished and, not luxurious. Properly scale and sized furniture will give your home that made-to-measure look without breaking the bank.
Last but not least, pay attention to the details. Give your home a carefully curated look with collections of art and accessories that you love. Line your shelves with beautiful books and cherished mementos; show off your mantel with your favourite photos; dress your tabletops with fresh flowers and greens. Remember every detail counts, so don’t leave anything overlooked.
About the Author: Kate Davidson is Designer, Principal of Kate + Co. Design inc. For more then a decade this design firm has focused on being a multi disciplinary interior design firm providing complete residential & commercial design services throughout Toronto, GTA. and North America. Known and respected for envisioning and creating stylish adaptable livable spaces www.kateandcodesign.com Instagram: kateandcodesigninc
*Article courtesy of EiEiHome