Frequently asked questions
What is a "Cocktail Culture"?
noun
What is Minimalism?
In a nutshell, minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of everything that distracts us from it.
How long has there been an "IKEA Hack" site?
Folks, we have Jules Yap to thank for making all these awesome "IKEA Hacks" available in one place. Back in May 2006, she was doing a little search on "IKEA Hacks" and realized that there were just so many amazing Hacks floating around the Internet. She thought wouldn't it be great to have them all in one spot? So that's how "IKEA Hackers" came to life in the form of a website.
Why should I decorate with plants?
Outside of cleaning the air we breath, I like them because they provide a lively atmosphere, the greenery adds colour and beauty, and they bring a room to life.
What was/is the hottest color in Fashion in 2018/2019?
Ultra Violet, or Pantone 18-3838. This was Pantone's - Color of the Year it "is a complex, celestial shade of purple, veering toward the cooler end of the color spectrum, that calls to mind the vastness of the galaxy, the power of spirituality, and creative expression in all its forms."
Do you have any suggestions for buying seating?
What is a "Mixologist"?
noun
Have exposed bulbs (Edison lights) gone out of style?
D2S thinks: This trend is just too useful to do away with. Com'on no shade needed! The simplicity of their look and design lends itself to any space. Choose one with a different coloured cord or try something a little more whimsical to up the vibe.
What is the difference between an Interior Decorator and an Interior Designer?
I don’t know what my design style is or how to articulate it, should I still work with an interior designer?
What is the first step to choosing a colour scheme?
For a head-to-toe makeover, the first step is creating a colour palette. You want a color scheme that best complements your upholstery, artwork, rug and whatever else. Come up with a basic color paette for the whole house, and then take that from room to room. It plays itself out in different ways in different rooms. Add a bolder pop of color to tweak the colour scheme.
Help, I have low ceilings!
Quickest way to freshen up a kitchen? Or Bathroom?
My space just feels blah!
Dull, boring bookcases!
I love the Cape Cod theme, when is it too much?
Resist the urge to be too theme-y. The Cape Cod look is a very popular request. You know the hallmarks: beadboard, a blue and white nautical palette, some sailboat paintings. But this has been done so many times, it lacks individuality. Keep it subtle - the vibe you are looking for can be achieved through a palette, artwork and materials that give the effect without drawing on the obvious clichés.
What’s one quick change that will improve any room?
Lower the artwork. People tend to hang it too high; it should be at eye level. And don’t worry about having something on each wall. It’s better to cluster art in one or two spots than to spread it out.
Decorating a huge room can be intimidating. How do you deal with soaring spaces?
Our philosophy is to fill them with large-scale furniture and art. If you’re a less-is-more type, go for one massive piece, like an amazing painting over the sofa. Or a large sectional sofa. I a singificantly sized coffee table.
Is there a quick tip to rearranging bookshelves?
Organize 60 percent of books vertically and 40 percent horizontally on the shelves. This creates balance yet spontaneity (and shows off the back of the bookshelf if it’s lined with a decorative fabric or paint). Stack horizontal books lower than vertical ones: If the vertical books are 12 inches tall, place three to four books horizontally up to four inches high. Add green plants to soften the bookshelf, but avoid flowers, which can look cluttered and distracting.
One piece of advice I just can't say enough?
Stop overthinking every little change and just try it! It’s easy to say, “Oh, that chair will never work next to my bed.” Move it and see how it looks. Sometimes pulling that red armchair from the dining room into your orange living room can work miracles.
Is there an equation to choosing a color palette?
When choosing a color palette, assign 60 percent of the room a dominant color, 30 percent a secondary color, and 10 percent an accent color. In a classic room setting, this may translate to designating walls the dominant color, upholstery the secondary color, and a floral arrangement or pillows the accent color. If you have a nice view outside, frame it by painting the interior window trims a dark color.
Help, Modern or Traditional, what's the difference?
Well that's a loaded question. What is Modern to one person is Traditional to another person. I say don't fight it - traditional elements look less fussy when juxtaposed with more modern items, and the modern pieces look less sterile next to the traditional touches.
I want to try a bold style or color but there's always a risk. Where should I start?
Should I use multiple lighting solutions in one room?
Does design2space, inc. have a cleaning task list?
Yes of course we do. You can review here or PM me for a true PDF copy. Enjoy!!
What are some quick tips for increased rental opportunities for my new (or existing) vacation rental.
Should I wallpaper all my walls? Is this current?
Long gone are the days where wallpaper is used on every wall in your space - that look can be overwhelming and somewhat dated. Instead, be smart and current. Whether you use a large leafy motif wallpaper on one wall or wallpaper on your stair risers and inside bookcases - it makes an instant statement, adds colour and present-day feeling to your home. And since your using wallpaer in smaller quantities it isn't as expensive as you would think so.
To add color or not?
We're big fans of neutral and white-washed walls (think Minimalism or Scandinavian design), but there's something about a splash of adventurous colour that makes a room feel like it's been lifted right out of photo shoot. Adding pops of colour, yellow, blue, purple and pink take it to the next level. Add to your bathroom, your living room, or your kitchen. We think that colour is the most natural addition to any space, and one that will make it feel instantly fresh, crisp and current. For color inspiration, see our blog post https://www.design2space.com/blog/2018-2019-hottest-color-trends