Decorating can be fun and confusing at the same time!  There is no doubt that designing a space can give one a headache, but remember that starting with a plan is the basis behind any decor implementation.  Most often, individuals start off with many great ideas that leave them confused and frustrated in the end because they have not carefully looked at the bigger picture!  When it comes to decorating, begin with a realistic plan that includes a focus on budget.  In other words, think about “Where you should put your buck?”

The key behind design is to focus on the over all look of a space.  But, figuring out where to put your money is another deal in itself, more in today’s economic uncertainty. There are certainly many situations where people have spent dollars on the wrong products or items within a space.  Sometimes people choose items that neither fit the look of their home nor functionality.  Usually, individuals put money into areas that will neither provide resale nor value.  This is why there are some simple factors to consider before spending money in renovations and decor.

Most of us already know that kitchens and bathrooms sell, but a lot of us do not realize that the function and flow of these spaces influence the decor appeal.  When it comes to renovating these important areas within a home, try to think about the way you want it to feel.  For example, if you want your kitchen to be warm and inviting, or just simple and modern, then incorporate elements that create the look you are after.  This means that putting money towards appliances, counter tops, back splash and flooring are key elements in creating these changes.  However, be careful to not overspend in extra gadgets if your budget does not permit.  Try to incorporate a balance between the product selections that you choose.  For instance, try to change out the larger ticket items before replacing the small extra accessories.  This means that cabinetry and counter tops will be a wiser expense than just replacing the appliances or sink alone.  Try to stretch your money in the extra details like purchasing new faucets or lighting instead of fancy bar stools!  Remember that a home’s value and decor style is measured by the quality and cohesiveness of a space. Some ways to make your money stretch in both kitchens and bathrooms is to:

1. Try to use the existing structure of a room before demolishing it completely.  This will obviously save money and time!   Usually, decorating can be as simple as painting and adding new fixtures to a room.  Some quick ways to enhance a bathroom and kitchen is to replace the lighting and hardwood.  There are simple track lights and modern knobs that can upgrade the look of a vanity and/or cabinet area.

2.  Look for details that will enhance the look of a room without having to spend too much.  There are ways that you can create a quality feel with new laminate counter tops that look like leather or stone, but are not the real thing.  Today there are many trendy styles in counter tops that do not have to be very expensive like Formica’s laminate counter top products.

*Decor Tip:  When you want a counter top to look expensive, try to choose a dark color!  Black laminate counter tops can be sleek looking and modern!

3. If you want your kitchen cabinets to appear more important looking, then try adding crown molding and/or cornices to the tops and bottoms of your cabinets.  Choosing molding can enhance the look of a kitchen, and installing under mount lighting above your counter top cabinetry can also create a wonderful affect. 

 Different MDF moldings are available at many hardware stores and depots.  These moldings are paintable, however you can purchase wood moldings and stain them to match your cabinetry wood.

4.  A great way to change your existing cabinet doors is to insert glass.  This is a cheaper method than ordering new door fronts.  However, another fantastic alternative for changing the look of cabinets is to reface your old doors with new fronts.  There are many kitchen stores that provide these types of options.

This is an example of glass inserts mounted onto existing cabinet doors!

Home Link Design has only provided a few decor examples to enhance decor looks.  However, try Home Link Design’s professional services for customized advice and portfolios.

Copyright 2009 Home Link Design Inc.

The trend today is not only to remodel, but to renovate some more! Every year people are looking for up-to-date trends that will spur more unique decorating genres within design.  Usually, homeowners find themselves changing colors and home products within a five year period to stay with the times.  However, these renovations sometimes cause more unduly harm to marital relationships than anticipated because of the usual unexpected turmoils that exist within a renovation process.  But, before beginning your next home renovation project, consider these factors below:

1.  Budget:  Be realistic with your budget. A good tip is to browse stores and manufacturers for pricing before committing to anything.  Doing some homework will allow you to budget accordingly.  Also, be sure to allocate 10% more for products, materials and trade work.

2.  Timeframe:  Be sure to know that all renovations can take longer than the expected timeframe.  Do not go into a project believing that it will only take a couple of weeks!

3.  Product Availability:  Choose products that are not only appealing to you, but also available.  There are many times when people choose products that are difficult to find, and/or discontinued.  These types of products should be carefully considered before purchasing since renovations can be more complex than initially thought.  Even if you can get a product, try to be sure that you can reorder more if need be.

4.  Product Installation:  Try to pick products that flow and fit within your home.  Even if the product looks great in a store or warehouse, be sure that it will fit inside your own home. Remember that many times we lose perception of the size of items and products that are seen inside larger store fronts. Be sure to measure dimensions before ordering.

5.  Trade scheduling:  Try to schedule your trades according to the delivery of your products and merchandise.  Do not have trades scheduled to come into your home without the available products on site!

6.  Preparation of  Site:  Try to have your site ready for renovations with a good preparation before demolishment of the site.  This is the time where you can de-clutter your room or home prior to the renovation.  Try to store things in a safe place where trades will not damage them.

7.  Contractors: Try to find the right contractor that understands your needs and timeframe.  This does not necessarily mean that you will find the right fit all the time, but look into references beforehand.

8.  Illness:  Be sure that there is another option if someone were to get sick or injured during the renovation process.  This is sometimes easily overlooked.

9.  Plan:  Be sure to plan your project as much as possible.  There are many details during renovations that can be easily overlooked.  Do not underestimate the complexity of a project.

10. Collaboration:  Try to work with the trades, rather than alienating yourself from them.  This is a group effort…so know that you have to stick with it until the end!  When difficulties arise, try to find a resolutioin together before battling it out!

Copyright 2008 Home Link Design Inc.