Getting the LOOK! ~This is not what I ordered!

Image courtesy of West Elm

Your furniture has arrived and it looks great, but there is something missing. It doesn't look like it did in the magazine.
Wonder why? First of all Styling for a photo shoot is intense! There is the interior designer who had the vision, professional stylers with a myriad of accessories at their disposal, photographers with their lighting assistants, a director, editor etc..

seangphoto.com

Achieving the Look in your own home is not that simple!

Don't despair, lets figure out how to get it right.
I like to take a photo of the piece of  furniture including the whole area/wall behind it: Looking at a photograph helps alienate all the other items in the room and helps focus on one area without getting overwhelmed.

What do you see?

• Is the furniture blending in with the wall?
• Does it look too small? 
• Does it look dark?
• Does it look bare?

Be open to taking new directions. If the furniture is blending in with the wall, consider painting the wall a bright and cheerful color, you do not necessarily need to paint the whole room, just an accent wall. Or use some funky wallpaper http://bit.ly/y4xGn7 . You could hang an over sized mirror or colorful artwork as a backdrop whilst at the same time adding interest and drawing the eye to the furniture.

Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

If the furniture you bought is too small for the space? Add width by placing something on either side, tall plants or a pair of chairs. Go asymmetrical for a more casual approach.

Symmetrical Arrangement ~ Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

Asymmetrical Arrangement  ~ Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

Too dark? Lighting is key! A pair of wall sconces on either side of your artwork/mirror, a table lamp or floor lamps will brighten up and change the whole feeling of the space.
Finally, don't leave it bare! After positioning all the larger items (chairs, lamps etc..) visit your local Pottery Barn or West Elm stores for 'Designer' accent pieces.
It's now time to think about adding some decorative items to the mix. It is a great opportunity to add color without commitment! I like to group smaller items in 3's, one larger piece on its own for effect, and don't forget a family photo!

Orbs ~ West Elm

 Collection of Silver & Glass  ~ Pottery Barn

You can also use these tips to breath new life into a tired room. you don't have to spend a lot of money to get the look. Take cue from interior design magazines and consider hiring a professional!

Have a fabulous weekend!

~D~

If you would like to engage Dionne Designs for your home project send me an email at dionnetrifirodesignllc@gmail.com

First Impressions Count

Your home is a direct impression of you. 

Sometimes you cannot control the exterior of your home, if for example you live in a condo or apartment or in a rental. You can however control your guests first impression of you upon entry.

Size is irrelevant and you don't need to break the bank.

A clean, decluttered, well lit entryway, teamed with a focal point, clever use of space and a touch of your personal style, can speak volumes.

Re using elements from around the home may mean that you need not purchase much, as was done in this rental, a mere 5ft x 5ft  entrance foyer.

Seasonal decorations brighten up and add color, the lamp ($29.99 from Home Goods) provides a softer light which distracts from the imperfections of this rental.