WANNA KNOW HOW TO GET A "DESIGNER LOOK" IN YOUR LIVING SPACE?

Want more of a designer look , but you live in cookie cutter apartment or home.  Let’s discuss this issue regarding your living room/area, shall we?  If you’re wanting your space to feel more cozy, more glam, more designer then you’ll want to master the art of personalizing and layering.  Ok, so maybe not master, but become really familiar with these techniques for a more cohesive look.  A little research never hurt anybody.
If you’re renting however, you’ll really want to consult with management to be clear on the limitations of your lease.  This space is not owned by you, so the final say will not be yours. 

Personalizing items in your cookie-cutter is the first way to lose some of the starkness that come with these box type spaces.  Some of first things we did after moving into our cookie-cutter was paint the walls, change linoleum tile to ceramic tile in the kitchen and bathrooms, replace all cheap hardware, and then replace all the cheap light fixtures, inside and out. 

Now, the décor ……..so of course, you’ll start with your base layer which includes selecting the correct size furniture and its’ placement (this assuming that you have the walls painted or covered, lighting installed, and flooring that you prefer).  Next, there is selection and placement of rugs, coffee tables, end tables, sofa tables, desks, chairs, bar carts and entertainment pieces.  These first two steps are simply laying the foundation for everything else.  These placements don’t have to be final, but you will now have a clear starting point.  There will be plenty of time for editing.  Even designers, change the plan or they’ll rework things that didn’t quite play out as they had plan.  A good designer usually has a plan, so you should also.  The next layer will include window coverings, lamps, baskets, wall art, stools, and pillows.  Lastly, you want to finish the space with trays, coffee table books, décor accessories, fresh flowers or plants, and throws.  Texture variation plays an important role in layering and creating ambiance and atmosphere.  I’m not trying to get too serious here, but I do want you to be able to see how this process can benefit you or someone you know. 

With all these things comes “function”.  One can’t simply dwell on “the pretty”.  Always keep in mind how you, your family, and friends use the space.  You can store DVD’s in a wicker basket or lacquered box.  A trunk under a sofa/console table can store blankets, throws and toys.
 
With the pics below, visualize how the personalization and layering process works.

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Now, can’t you see yourself creating a chic and functional living area?  I’ll be honest, not a ton of pictures of great design with cookie-cutter homes……..sorry!

However, to expand on this topic further stay tuned for future posts such as:  Creating Fabulous Foyers, Mixing Textures, Update that cookie-cutter fireplace

Other ideas to personalize:  Add wall sconces, Replace frame less mirrors in the bathroom, Add closet systems, Move away from "matchy, matchy furniture"

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

Credits:  1 ElleDecor  2 Firstsense  3 Houzz  4 Decoratingblog.net   5 Jan Showers