MOVING IN — WITH STYLE THAT FITS YOU AND YOUR HOME

I hope you enjoyed the excitement of summer and are preparing for the beauty of fall. One of the things I did this summer is have my website (www.belladesigns.com) redesigned so it has an updated look. Please visit and let me know what you think; you may even see your project featured!

Over the summer, I attended a few memorable events, including an Ann Sacks event in Beverly Hills featuring Kelly Wearstler’s debut tiles; an NKBA meeting at Thompson Building Materials showcasing decorative interior and exterior finishing materials; and a Scout @ Quarters D event spotlighting American icon Elsie De Wolfe, the “queen of style” who’s considered to be the first professional interior designer.

This summer I also worked with a few customers who were moving into new homes, so I’d like to share five new home decorating tips.

Moving In — With Style That Fits You and Your Home

Moving to a new home is an adventure filled with many decisions. If it’s an older home, for instance, areas such as the kitchen and bath may need updating as well as flooring, paint, and window treatments. To make the decision process easier, consider the following:

1. Each home has a personality of its own. Take this into consideration when updating the space, and choosing furnishings and materials. What worked well in your old home may not work well in the new home. This is an opportunity for a fresh start.
2. The scale of the home and the scale of the furnishings need to be compatible. If you’re downsizing and came from a large home with large-scale furniture, you may need to invest in smaller pieces, as your larger pieces will overpower a smaller-scale home.
3. The style of the furniture should complement the architecture of the home. For example, if the home is contemporary, contemporary style furnishings will result in harmony. To add interest, other styles can be thoughtfully incorporated.
4. Choose paint colors that work with the compass directions of the home and the natural light. For example, if the home faces north and is mainly dark, choose colors that are light and brighter. Also, be sure to select paint colors that complement the colors of your furnishings.
5. Upgrading furniture with a focus on increased comfort, ergonomics, and quality of materials will make a big difference in how much you enjoy your new home; it’s definitely worth the investment. Donating old furnishings or giving them to family allows the pieces to be put to good use.

Diane’s Take: When thinking about the look and feel of your new home, purchase the highest quality you can afford and choose styles, colors, and materials that are timeless. If the budget allows, start with a clean palette and acquire furnishings and accessories that complement the new space.

Please consider referring my services to friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who have purchased a new home or are in the process of doing so. In addition, remember that great “power partners” for me are real estate agents, contractors and home industry professionals.