Expert Of The Week-- Design and Color Tips From the Pros
Being at Benjamin Moore, I've come across many talented people over the years who make me proud to be in the design industry. These design professionals that are big fans of our company are experts at their craft and passionate in what they deliver to their clients. So, I wanted to share more of their great ideas with you.
Looking for design solutions on how to deal with tight spaces, shrinking budgets, or growing families? Ever wondered why a designer becomes a designer? Well, consider this a designer's diary. I'm featuring different designers in the upcoming months who will share a little insight that I hope will create big ideas!
Along with the expert's post on my blog, Benjamin Moore is scheduling a Q&A with the expert of the week and more information will be posted through Benjamin Moore's Expert's Exchange, facebook and twitter.
My First Expert Of The Week: Nelly Youakim
Here we go! Nelly Youakim, of Youakim Home, is a residential designer and decorator practicing in Toronto, Canada for almost 10 years. Her influence have come from Greece where she began her design career and extend to include a holistic interest in creating greener homes. Part of her profits go to support charity, a lesson we can all take to heart.
I asked Nelly what room can be a small, but impactful project to take on. She had this to say about the "Almighty Powder Room":
A small room that speaks great dimensions, the powder-room is one especially important space that needs extra attention when designing and decorating. Whether your preference leans towards classic, modern, transitional or eclectic style, allow yourself to go big and bold in, so splurge as much as you can. Remember visitors talk, so give them something interesting to talk about.
With this in mind here are a few design and decorating suggestions that will help you make the most out of your powder room, and wow your guests while making them feel pampered and appreciated when they visit.
Whether you’re working with a generous budget or a modest one, you can achieve outstanding results with the following tips.
Powder Room by Marsh & Clark Design via here.
Walls:play with a great paint finish, something that will expand your room, color and direction. If the room is narrow a pattern that is wide, will make it feel wider. Go wide horizontal stripes, or even wide vertical stripes; a tone on tone finish is a very elegant and subtle way of making the most out of your walls.
Vanity: There was a time when only bathroom vanities were used in bathrooms, now more and more we see innovative and creative ideas, antiques are used with modern fitting creating unique pieces of art. The vanity should be your signature piece, if you are going to replace it, go all out. Buy an irresistible vanity that will leave visitors envying you.
Lighting: It is very important to infuse good lighting. Use sconces and chandeliers; remember make-up touch up time, this is a task that requires good lighting, your great lights well positioned will make your visitors look good, and feel good!
Photo courtesy of Youakim Home
Faucet: Invest in quality and design. Quality shows and lasts, select the finish and style that will complement the overall look you are after. Remember that water efficient units are not a splurge, they are a must and you will feel very good contributing to the environment this way.
Floor: If you chose to go with a full gut and replace your existing flooring, make it a heated floor, your guests and you will appreciate the warmth on the cold days of the winter. As On the other hand if you keep your existing tile, and select a rug, do not use the bath mats in your powder room, but go for a beautiful and sophisticated small area rug with colors that will complement your design.
Mirrors: A Mirror on the wall, is a piece of art in disguise. Select an elegant frame and quality mirror.
Windows: If you have been privileged to have a window in your powder-room, here is your chance to dress it up! Use luxurious fabrics and style.
Art, Accessories and Everything else: The finishing touches that bring the entire story together. Give importance to the little things that make a big difference. From soap dispenser to towels to hand lotion, these are the things that your visitors will feel special using and make their experience unforgettable.
Beauty and functionality go hand in hand in the design of any room. Sheer elegance in big ways is the game you want to play here and make the most out of this small space. Go big go bold and enjoy!