You have finally furnished your new home and are now faced with the finishing touches-one of the most challenging areas of design for the homeowner. Interior designers understand how critical the details are in creating an interesting and more importantly, a personal environment. Artwork and accessories are individual statements that give a room that well orchestrated look. This is the final step in furnishing a room and careful attention needs to be taken in order to complete the picture.

Out With The Old and In With The New
First of all, decide which of your current accessories that you want to display. This is a good time to take stock and really analyze what you have kept on your coffee table for all of these years. Ask: Does it really make a statement, either personal or aesthetic? You may find that the flower arrangement on the buffet has seen better days or that the candle holders your cousin gave you really would look better in her home instead of your own. Just because the candle holders or that porcelain figure were gifts, doesn't mean they need to be placed in an important spot in the room. For most of us, it is much easier to recognize that the sofa is getting a little worn and needs replacing, than to say, "It's time for a new painting or art piece above the sofa."

Maintaining The Style
After deciding which items need to stay, take a good look at the other elements and design direction of the room. It is important that the key accessories reinforce the initial style of the room. For instance, an antique cut crystal bowl with a bronze stand may be too traditional and fussy for a contemporary home. A better choice would be a grouping of brushed aluminum containers and vases. Also try to let go of the idea that every small item in the room must have a personal connection or memory attributed to it. Sometimes your keepsakes and momentos are much better off in a place other than where you've been displaying them. Interior designers will often accessorize in order to complete a feeling or theme to a room. This is not to say that you can't incorporate items that have some sentimental value, but don't feel you must keep them on display for that reason alone.

Placement
Take a look at the room and analyze what areas are the most focal. Artwork is an area that is both extremely personal and very important in pulling a room together while making a statement. Every room will have a focal wall, the place that catches your eye when you first walk in. It is here that you need to hang your most important piece of artwork. The same is true for your table top accessories. Your most crucial surface in the living room is often the coffee table. In the dining room it may be a centerpiece for the table or sometimes a central grouping of items on the buffet. Start with your key wall or table top and work outward. Side tables are a perfect place to have family photos or keepsakes. Peripheral walls are ideal for hanging smaller and quieter works of art. While you are working, remember to maintain balance and harmony with the other elements in the room.

Grouping
One of the trickier aspects of design is the grouping or coupling of elements and objects. This is an art form in itself. I always stress with designers that the key is to group objects together and not line them up or spread them out on a surface. Part of this practice comes from the study of composition and still life. A couple rules of thumb may help. The first and most important step is to find objects that complement each other while maintaining some individual interest. Factors include style, height, scale and texture. Second, try to group objects in odd numbers. Three is a good balance. The triangle is often used by designers in the placement of objects in relation to each other. This triangle placement will help unify the accessories while maximizing the viewing of each object individually. It also offers a tripod effect for visual balance. Finally, remember to keep the tallest object in the background and the smaller ones more forward. These concepts may seem a little foreign, but once you start experimenting you will begin to see what works best visually. These rules also hold true for artwork. If you are hanging several small pieces, try grouping them together to make a larger statement.

Scale
One of the biggest mistakes people make is in scale. We will often measure for a sofa or table before making a purchase, but forget to think about it when it comes to purchasing artwork or accessories. And more often than not, the scale is too small. Large artwork and a couple of important coffee table items can make or break a great look in a room. Before you set out shopping, closely scrutinize your room and find the areas that still need the most visual impact. Many new homes have tremendous ceiling height and vertical volume-don't make the mistake of ignoring this area and losing the visual drama it provides. When you have high ceilings try larger pieces of art or try stacking art to lead the eye upward. The same is correct for your coffee table accessories. Add some height here to balance out the vertical volume of the room. Some ideas are large candlesticks or freestanding vases and sculpture.

Conclusion
Adding the finishing touches to your new home is a challenging aspect of design. It is the time to put your stamp on the design, as well as bring the whole picture together. Your first task is to catalog your current accessories and decide what you still want to display, weeding out the items that will not go with your theme. Next, take a look at the big picture-what is your overall design theme and how can you enhance that? Remember, this is the time to polish the look. Survey the room and make note of the focal areas. These are the places where you will put your most important pieces of art and best accessories. You can use less central areas for smaller collections. Group your items following the "rules of thumb" provided, achieving a look of balance while making your personal statement. Finally, keep in mind scale while you are pulling everything together. Don't neglect those large spaces-use them! Take advantage of the ceiling height your new home offers. Overall, work toward a well orchestrated look that makes your personal statement while blending with your overall design theme.

About The Author

James Roberts is the owner of Taylor Roberts, a model home merchandising, interiors, and distinctive home furnishings firm. Contact Taylor Roberts at (707) 895-2500 or visit their website, PortfolioCollectionª, at www.taylorroberts.com.

Custom Design for Your New Home
by James Roberts and Lysa Allman
Owner, Taylor Roberts

Armed with a greater amount of exposure to the building, designing, and purchasing process, savvy home buyers now expect to have more input into the design of their homes, as well as the opportunity to create a more personalized environment.

In the past, marketing professionals, contractors, and interior designers studied the marketplace, decided on the features of the home, then sold it to the buyer. Today, however, builders are offering a wider variety of options and upgrades.

Establish Your Priorities

Of course, every design option has a price tag. If you walk into the design center and announce that you want your new home to look "just like the model," you may be disappointed to find out the upgrades do not fit into your budget. This process is very similar to that for purchasing a new car. Look at the fully-loaded model first, then decide which features are most important, and within your budget.

Things to Consider:

• What are my family's needs?
• Which items demonstrate quality and value in my home?
• How long do we plan on living here?
• How much time do we spend in the kitchen? (one of the most utilized rooms)
• Which items will create a strong visual impact?

Remember, it is equally important to determine your budget, as it is to establish your priorities. The advantage you have is that the cost of the upgrades are rolled into your final purchase price and spread out over the term of your loan. You are not making a lump sum purchase.

Select a Design Direction

As model home merchandisers, our first step is to develop a particular design direction for each model. As a home buyer you should do the same. A contemporary environment will include low pile carpet, such as a Berber, with fewer flooring transitions, simple cabinet styles, and monochromatic or neutral paint colors.

In traditional homes you will find wood floors, patterned carpets, more ornate cabinet styles, and elaborate designs and details in stone as well as tile countertops. On the other hand, heavy cabled or textured carpeting, stone or ceramic tile floors, granite counters, and rich, soft background colors are used to create a classic European look.

Generally, the builder's standard interior paint color is very neutral and works well with any flooring and finish choices. Be sure to take advantage of any optional interior paint alternatives they may have. A split finish (where the walls are painted a deeper color, and the doors, casing, and baseboards a lighter one), is a very important option. This technique accents any woodwork and intensifies the interior. Be sure you have a sample chip on hand when making other interior choices.

A Worthy Investment

Flooring surfaces are one of the most important ways to create the right environment in a home. For that reason, it is important to choose your primary carpet style and color first. This will set the direction for all other flooring selections. Remember, the old rule of wall-to-wall carpeting throughout the house is long gone.

In our model interiors, we often utilize tile, stone or wood in high traffic areas such as entryways, family rooms and hallways. You may also want to consider using tile in your bathrooms. It will last longer than other surfaces, and can be easier to maintain in areas prone to spills and/or water damage.

Upgrading your cabinets, counters and built-in appliances, is not only one of the best investments you can make, but you will get a great deal of enjoyment from them. Many builders offer counter options such as stone-like tile, Corian, or granite slabs. However, if they are outside of your budget, you may want up upgrade your back-splashes instead. A 12" x 12" granite back-splash combined with an 8" x 8" ceramic tile counter is an affordable alternative.

Evaluate your builder's flexible floor space options. They may be able to address your own personal needs such as home offices, media rooms or master bedroom retreats. From a design perspective, these can greatly enhance the feel of a home.

The Choice is Yours

In addition to being a savvy buyer, you can also be a savvy designer. You will be much happier with your home if you have a hand in personalizing it, before you buy. Establish your priorities, decide which areas require the most attention, and add what you like that fits in your budget.

Bolster your own design direction or personal taste by adding features such as crown molding, finish carpentry, pre-cast fireplace surrounds, or wrought iron stairways. Ask your builder for information on these details, as well as custom cabinetry and lighting options.

Consider upgrading your cabinets and counters, thereby increasing the value of your home. And don't be afraid to integrate your floor surfaces by using carpet, tile, wood, or even stone. The results will be fantastic! All of these options, when combined effectively, will create a more custom-made interior design.

Design details also really highlight your personal taste. By investing time and effort into the layout, design, and detailing of your home, you will create an atmosphere that will be both functional and comfortable for you and your family for years to come.

About The Author

James Roberts is the owner of Taylor Roberts, a model home merchandising and interiors firm. His work has been featured in House and Garden, and Island Home Magazines. Contact Taylor Roberts at (707) 895-2500 .

Lysa Allman is a freelance writer, and a marketing associate for small businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Decorating Glossary

a b c d e f g h i j l m n o p r s t v w

Decorating on a Budget:
Tricks & Tips To Spice Up Your Living Space
by Carolyn Anderson
Co-Principal, Desa Design

Congratulations! You just purchased a new home and now you're ready to decorate. If you're like most buyers you're probably a little strapped for cash-yet eager to begin personalizing your new home. The good news is, with a little creativity, you can design your interior space to be warm, stylish, and inviting without breaking the bank.

Start With Paint
Paint is probably the easiest-and most affordable-way to add a personal touch to your new home. And you don't necessarily have to paint an entire room to create a fresh look. One of my favorite ways to add interest to a room is to create an accent wall. This simple decorating trick involves painting one of the main walls in a room-typically the wall behind furniture pieces-a different color. Accent walls can be bold and bright or soft and subdued. Draw colors from your furnishings, your window coverings, materials in your home such as tile or granite, or simply choose a color you like. The nice thing about paint is if you're unhappy with the results, you can always try again with a new color.

Another popular way to add a unique touch to rooms is to paint moldings or trim in a different color. If your room has bookcases, think about painting just the areas behind the shelves. You can also combine paint with a wallpaper border for a striking effect. Try dropping your border down 18-inches from the ceiling and using a coordinating paint color above the border, next to the ceiling.

If you like the look of a border, but wallpaper is not in your budget, try stenciling. You can use this easy technique to create a border around a ceiling, a window or doorway. Best of all, when you get tired of your design you can paint right over it and start fresh.

Faux finishes, which I'm sure you've seen in model homes, are extremely popular right now. You can create a variety of special effects with paints like the Ralph Lauren line, available at Home Depot. With finishes like denim, leather, suede, and historic crackle, the Ralph Lauren paints offer a myriad of possibilities limited only by your own creativity.

If you like a textured finish you may also want to experiment with one of my favorite products-The Woolie. The Woolie allows you to create fun textures with paint quickly and easily, using a process similar to sponge painting. Practice your technique on cardboard or a paper bag to get the desired effect on walls.

Think Different
To borrow a phrase from Apple Computer, when it comes to today's interior design it's all about thinking different. Don't worry about breaking the rules. There aren't any. Today's living environments lend themselves to function and creativity. If a new coffee table is not in your budget, see if you can create your own with a unique base and a piece of glass. Urns, old suitcases, and trunks can all make stunning coffee tables when topped with glass.

Looking for a creative window treatment? Try substituting bamboo stakes for drapery rods. Hang tab top panels on the bamboo and you have a look that's functional and stylish.

If your old couch has seen better days, you can spice it up with inexpensive slip covers-the old-fashioned, loose-fitting variety that you tuck in with a spatula. Throw on several pillows in your favorite shapes and colors and suddenly, your old sofa looks city chic.

Need more ideas? Just turn on the TV! Believe it or not, sources like HGTV (the home and garden cable channel) can be a great way to get ideas. Tune in and learn tricks of the trade from design professionals from all over the world.

It's All About Accessories
One of the things I like best about decorating model homes is accessorizing. A few great strategically placed pieces-items like vases, framed photos, or decorative boxes-really complete a room.

There are plenty of ways to enhance your decor with accessories without breaking your budget. First, decide on the look you want to achieve. One of today's popular themes is the ethnic look, a style which incorporates baskets and rough woods. I like this look because it's fun, functional, and the scale is good. It's also a great style for those on a tight budget because many inexpensive pieces are available at stores like Pier One Imports and Cost Plus.

If you prefer a more classic style, visit stores like Marshall 's, Ross, and T.J. Maxx. These stores carry a wide selection of accessories including crystal, brass, pewter, metal vases, urns, platters, and more. Don't forget that you can easily alter many of the items to match your own color scheme. For example, a simple metal urn can be transformed with a can of spray paint. Try rubbing some metallic gold paint around the rim or on raised surfaces to bring out the detail. Simple projects like this don't require a lot of artistic ability, yet the results can be amazing.

Home improvement stores are another great place to accessory hunt. You can create a spectacular mirror for your entry-or for over the fireplace-using a standard vanity mirror from Home Depot or Orchard Supply, a can of paint, and either a ready-made picture frame or pieces of crown molding, if you're ambitious enough to tackle making the frame yourself.

Don't forget about stores like Target and K-Mart, which also have some interesting items. In fact, Target's exclusive Michael Graves collection has some fabulous accessories including clocks, picture frames, kitchen appliances, and serveware, not to mention a brand new line of electronics.

Don't Feel Rushed
Unlike builders who must complete their model homes on a tight schedule, you have the flexibility to enjoy the decorating process and take it step by step. Making your new house look and feel like "home" won't happen overnight. In fact, you just might find that you regret the purchases you rush into. You're much better off living in your new space for a while. Study each room carefully before making any major furniture purchases. Think about all the options and all the possibilities. Start by "window shopping" to learn what's available and what your dream furnishings will cost. This will help you develop a budget. Remember, even builders have budgets for their model homes.

Don't forget to prioritize your wish list. I recommend starting with the areas you spend the most time in. If you took advantage of upgrades to add beautiful elements like wood, stone and tile to your home, you have probably discovered how a few well chosen items can really enhance the enjoyment of your living environment. The same line of thinking applies to selecting furnishings. This is why it's so important to take your time and choose carefully.

While it's natural to want your new home to be as beautiful and comfortable as a model home right away, if you take your time, you will ultimately achieve your goal-even if you are on a tight budget.

About The Author

Carolyn Anderson is co-principal of Desa Design, an award-winning design firm specializing in model home merchandising. Desa provides an array of professional services including model home design, floorplan critique, marketing consultation, and interior color and upgrade selection. Founded over 20 years ago, Desa was honored at the last Superior California MAME Awards, when all three "Community of the Year" category winners featured model home merchandising by Desa Design. For more information, call (530) 895-8886 or visit Desa's portfolio of award.

Decorating Through The Ages and Stages

by Sharon Moore
MIRM, ASID, President, Sharon Moore Creative Design Group

Does it seem that the young generation and the old generation will never see eye to eye, especially when it comes to style of clothing, music, entertainment and home decorating? Whether you're into stiletto heels, baggy pants, polo shirts or suits; smooth jazz or hard rock; sensible sofas with safe color schemes or Ikea minimalism and bold color; there is one thing that every generation agrees on and that comes in the form of a dream. The dream of home ownership. Each generation wants to own their own home, and decorate that home to compliment their lifestyle.

The First Time Buyer
What a great time, owning your first home. Time to dump the "my first apartment" furnishings and establish a look that is uniquely yours. After making the trade off from the house of your dreams to the home you could actually afford, you might feel like the house is smaller and less elegant than you envisioned. Not to worry. Your new home can still reflect your unique style and personality and be a source of comfort and pride.

Decorating Through The Ages and Stages
Professional designers always start with a plan - which is especially important when working with smaller spaces. Begin by placing furnishings on a plan to scale. Next, develop a color scheme that has a neutral background. Neutral colors expand the space visually and allow you to change accessories like accent pillows and art as you can afford.

It's best to start with one large item that you love. A big-screen TV in an entertainment center, a sofa, or even a piece of art. This will serve as a focal point to work around. In most areas of your home you can get away with purchasing inexpensive furnishings to start, with the goal of replacing these items with quality pieces over time. Of course, I suggest buying good quality beds and sofas from the start. Consignment stores are a great place to find quality furnishings at value prices.

One of the biggest benefits of going from renter to homeowner is you can personalize your home any way you choose. Paint is a very easy and affordable way to add drama to neutral furnishings. If the room is small, try adding one wall of color. Wallpaper borders at the ceiling add height and character to children's bedrooms and can be changed easily as your child grows. Sponge paint or faux paint is another excellent way to brighten a room - and you can do it yourself.

The Move-up Buyer
As families mature and children grow, it's often necessary to move to a larger home. Such a move is a wonderful opportunity to update your decorating style. Of course, the space in your new home needs to compliment your family's lifestyle, which is why a plan is critical at this stage of life. Careful planning can help you maximize storage space, and create "zones" that will enhance the function of your home. Typically you'll want a zone for activity, a zone for family time together, and a quiet zone.

Decorating a move-up home can take on an exciting blend of showcasing individual taste while establishing a sense of formality to enhance the more upscale setting. For example, the living room can revolve around a practical, conversational grouping of furniture, and at the same time become a showcase for beautiful furnishings, art work, and collectibles. Your color scheme could revolve around a new Oriental rug that works with your existing furnishings. Or you could reupholster quality sofas for a whole new look at a cost that's usually lower than replacing them.

Practical new furnishings for the family room, office, and children's rooms will grow with you through the teenage years. Darker colors with texture seem to work the best. Built-in media centers and tech centers are great additions for multi-purpose use. If you plan to use your existing furnishings, you can freshen the look by adding colorful accent pillows or even placing an attractive area rug on top of carpeting.

When choosing features for your new home, keep in mind that upgraded items like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and wood flooring will add to the decorating style and resale value of the home.

The Move Down Buyer
At this stage in their lives, many home buyers wish to simplify and scale down. After years of accumulating "stuff," the active adult's mind is often focused on quality instead of quantity. Some in this category have furnishings they would never part with, while others prefer to start fresh. The key to success, of course, revolves around having a plan. First, define your needs. Then, design your furnishings to work.

Chances are, your new home has an extra bedroom or two. Do you want to create a guest room or a dual purpose room that can accommodate a hobby as well as a guest? Do you entertain frequently? Living areas should be planned accordingly. Also think carefully about how you plan to use outdoor areas. Well designed patios or decks can extend your living space and add to the enjoyment of your home. For most active adults, simplicity and functionality seem to be key.

One final word of advice - don't feel you need to adhere to strict rules or guidelines to create an appealing home. Trust your judgment and don't be afraid to experiment. The goal is to design spaces that make you happy and comfortable. After all, having a home you really love is what the American Dream is all about.


About The Author
Sharon Moore, MIRM, ASID, is the president of Sharon Moore Creative Design Group, Inc., a San Ramon , CA firm specializing in model home interiors, design centers, and commercial interior design. Her work has been honored with over 30 MAME awards and five national awards. Contact Sharon at (925) 866-8007 or at smcdg@aol.com .

by Michael Serpa
Owner, Vice President of Marketing, The Ryness Company

The homes being built today are rapidly changing in many ways. The single story ranch style home has given way to two story homes and now two story homes are rapidly giving way to three story homes in some residential markets. Not only is the basic exterior of the home changing by adding more architectural relief where possible, but the materials which go into building the home, specifically, the "sticks" framing the house are often not sticks at all but steel. Let's take a look from the inside out, at the new homes being built today to get a better feel for the changing face of home building.

The Facts About Steel Framing
Primarily, the question many buyers have is how does steel framing stack up against stick framing? What are the benefits? What are the drawbacks? Cost considerations and quality control?

In short, steel framing a home is faster. If you take a look at straight labor costs, the difference can be counted not just in nickels and dimes, but in hundreds and thousands of dollars. For instance, it will take a crew one week to frame a 2000-square foot house using light gauge steel. In the wood-framed home there is nearly two and one half times more labor and it takes more than twice - and in some cases three times as long - to frame the same home. Remember too, that 80% of the labor and manufacturing for steel framing is conducted in a controlled, factory environment. This means quality control is much higher which translates to accuracy being greatly improved. In plain terms, fewer bowed walls, less settlement issues with nail pops and drywall cracks, more square corners, and a better quality-built home throughout.

Steel framing is cleaner, there is virtually no waste, it's environmentally sound and most builders agree that it is quite possibly the wave of the future for the reasons mentioned above. The use of steel in construction began decades ago in commercial applications where it is used the majority of the time for its structural integrity and dexterity. In residential applications, framing sections are delivered by truck and installed in a numerical sequence, very similar to a large erector set. Everything fits in place and no waste goes on the ground. For the recycling aspect of using steel framing in homes, it takes about five old Buicks to build a 2,000 square foot house as opposed to several trees. Steel does not rot, split, twist, or dry rot. It is termite proof, fire proof, warp proof, and is lighter than wood meaning there is less labor required and less downward pressure on a slab foundation.

Primary objections to steel framing for builders have been labor availability, a time consuming learning curve and concerns about processing delays (through building plan approvals in cities and counties). Then, of course, there is the fear of the unknown.

Buyer objections to steel framing include worries about hanging pictures, fear of lightning strikes, and so on. Hanging a picture requires special screws if hanging directly on a stud, however, drywall picture hanging remains the same as what would be required in a wood-framed home. Screws such as these are provided at move in. Lightning is not so much of an issue because steel actually routes any charge that may occur directly to the ground as opposed to through the structure.

Floorplans For Today's Lifestyles
The evolution of the floorplan for homes today is driven by several interrelated variables. Among the variables are land availability, political trends regarding growth, and the economy. In a strong economy buyer "wants" become an important part of the purchase proposition. In a weaker economy, buyer "needs" drive the purchase decision.

For example, in Northern California , land for development is scarce due to growth controls and limited availability of wet utility resources. While the first choice of most new home buyers in the Bay Area is single family-detached housing, there is significant political pressure from local governments to build more multi-family and small lot housing to help reduce mounting traffic congestion and make homes more affordable. In multi-family housing, three-story construction is becoming more attractive as a way for buyers to gain more living space, be closer to their jobs, and pay as much as 40% less for their home. As a result, many builders in Northern California are blending more multi-family and small lot product into their land portfolios.

The Architectural Touch
Specifically, what are the trends in exterior design? Again, it's all about curb appeal. Many builders are addressing the buyer desire for architectural flair by adding more gables to the fronts and building steeper pitches. Moving garages off the front of homes is still very popular among buyers and city/county governments. Three-car garages in single family homes continue to be most popular, however, due to lot size constraints, we're seeing more three-car tandem-style garages. Traditional touches such as covered entries and porches are still very popular in most markets. Wood exteriors, including shingle and horizontal siding are favored by many buyers who desire a warm, friendly feel. However, in arid regions, stucco remains the dominate exterior.

In addition to desiring appealing exterior design, today's buyers are more sensitive to land plan issues. Progressive builders are blending lot yield decisions with curved linear streets and rolling topography. Buyers are increasingly aware that a great land plan ensures an attractive streetscape and an appealing community for years to come.

As the face of home building continues to change, buyers can expect new homes to boast better design and more amenities than ever before. Thanks to technology and new construction methods, today's new homes are stronger, safer, and more energy efficient than homes of the past. To complement our fast-paced lives, new homes also offer more comfort and convenience features - extras that used to be reserved for high priced custom homes. The latest changes in home building reflect a return to family values and lifestyle considerations - and that's good news for home buyers.

About The Author
Mike Serpa is vice president of marketing for The Ryness Company, one of the largest and most successful new homes sales and marketing companies in the United States . Serpa engages in feasibility analysis, product development, research, and brokerage management for the firm, which currently represents more than 40 public and private new home builders throughout California and the Pacific Northwest . Mike is also sales and marketing director for American Building Systems, Inc., which provides framing and related services in wood and light gauge steel.

Fashion or Function?
What Today's Windows Are Wearing

by Michael Luna
Owner, Visions Window Coverings

Do you fear the thought of making the wrong decision when choosing your window coverings? If so, you are in the norm. Some windows have been left bare, rather than their owner's risk making the wrong decision. A great window treatment lets you control how you see the neighborhood. And how the neighborhood sees you. It defines a room, compliments your personality, and inspires you in dozens of ways.

You need not despair though, sorting through your options can be fun and easy considering the many selections available. You only need to keep the following questions in mind when you marry your windows with fashion and function.

Decor
Will you be matching existing decor or creating a new look? You should look at every window in every room a little differently. What's right for your formal living room won't necessarily work in the nursery. As a new home buyer with a whole house full of bare windows you may want to look to a window covering professional before making any hasty decisions. A professional can provide advice and show you product samples so you'll have a better idea of the many options available.

Obviously, the feeling you hope to evoke with your decor will, to a certain degree, dictate the type of window coverings you choose. You may like the clean look of wood blinds-one of today's most popular choices-or you may prefer the custom appeal of elegant drapery in a designer fabric. Whatever your decorating style, you will find a variety of choices to showcase your windows and enhance your home's decor.

Energy Efficiency
Do you need to keep cool or warm air in? Or out? Beauty and practicality should live in harmony. Simply put, if you live in the foothills, a snazzy window shade that doesn't insulate is about as useful as a silk shirt in a blizzard.

Good choices for energy efficiency include honeycomb shades and shutters. If price is an issue, you may want to consider honeycomb shades which are relatively inexpensive and come in colors to match every decor. Honeycomb shades actually increase energy efficiency by trapping air between the layers of the shade. Their unique design will help keep your home evenly heated or cooled. Honeycomb shades can easily be raised or lowered and come in several layers to control light, heat, and noise.

If your budget permits, shutters are ideal for windows that require added protection from heat or cold. Always an elegant choice, wood or vinyl shutters offer timeless beauty and can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles.

Light
How much light do you want to let in or keep out? The direction your windows face affects the amount of light that illuminates your home. North windows have the coldest exposure. East windows offer warm bright light, especially in the morning. The west facing windows admit the most heat. South windows receive good light year-round, and cast a warm, golden glow on interiors.

There are many products currently on the market that can create interesting effects with light. Blinds allow you to adjust light flow with a quick twist of the wand or pull of the string. Roll-up shades, which are back in style, can be raised or lowered in seconds to control light. Shades are available in virtually any fabric as well as more exotic materials like rattan and bamboo.

One of the hottest products on the market is HunterDouglas' new Silhouette Window Shadings. Silhouettes feature a soft, sheer fabric front and back facing bonded to translucent fabric vanes. A single cord rotates the vanes to let in as much or as little light as you want. When closed, Silhouettes offer complete privacy, and when raised, the shading is completely concealed inside the headrail.

Noise
Fabric window fashions can cut down on echoes. Sound reverberates in vacant spaces, and becomes distorted. Your window coverings professional can suggest the right product to add that will absorb the sound.

The features that make a product energy efficient can also help minimize noise. That's why honeycomb shades and shutters are good options for windows that face busy streets, parks, or playgrounds. Another way to reduce noise in a room is with fabric window fashions. The heavier the fabric the better it will insulate, however, you will want to consider whether a heavy treatment allows enough light to filter in.

Privacy
Do you prefer to meet your new neighbors in your own time? Window coverings should make your home a safe haven where you feel comfortable enough to lounge around in your pajamas.

Nobody wants to live in a fishbowl, so where privacy is an issue, you'll want to choose a window covering that works as well at night as it does during the day. Shutters ensure privacy when closed properly, as do certain types of shades. Some shades allow shadows to be seen from outside, so you'll want to verify that the material you choose offers complete privacy.

Blinds offer adequate privacy for most people, however, the tiny holes that house the strings can offer a peep hole view inside. Adding decorative tapes to blinds-a popular retro look-can resolve the 'hole' problem.

Security
Do you have valuables that you do not want to advertise to all who might see in? It all comes down to you being in control. Control to choose a window covering product that offers 100% closure.

For security, shutters are optimal. They close securely and make entry through a window much more challenging. When closed, blinds, shades of all types, and fabric draperies can keep valuables safe from view, however, none of these products will impede entry.

Now that you have reviewed the basic starting questions, you will be better prepared to consult with your window covering specialist. In fulfilling your quest for a window covering consultant that's right for you, trust your instincts for a harmonious relationship. Choose someone who gives you choices of a wide range of products and is experienced, licensed, bonded and insured. Look for brand name products, such as HunterDouglas Window Fashions, to ensure quality and durability.

You know your home and lifestyle better than any one else. But what you may not know is how the right window treatment choices can make your habitat more beautiful and comfortable than you ever imagined. This is where your window covering professional comes in. Together, you can sort through many of the questions you are bound to have. Soon you will be picking out exciting new window treatments any window would love to wear.

About The Author

Michael Luna is the owner of Visions Window Coverings. Established in 1984, Visions is based in Sacramento and recently opened an outlet in Dublin . Michael and his Northern California sales staff provide in-home and in-store consulting by appointment. The HunterDouglas showroom & design centers offer a full line of window coverings including blinds, shades, shutters, fabrics, drapery and re-upholstery. To make an appointment with your local sales consultant please call 1-800-284-1881.

Get Set To Entertain This Holiday Season

by Kirra Moore
Owner, Encore! A Builder's Clearing House

Get Ready...Get Set...For the bountiful harvest, the gathering of friends that the beginning of fall announces.

With the end of the hectic days of summer, we look forward to entertaining inside. Visions of holiday tables surrounded by family and friends replace thoughts of pool parties and barbecues once the leaves begin to fall.

It's fun to anticipate the gatherings and visualize how we will entertain. With the feasting season of Thanksgiving and the holidays rapidly approaching, now is the perfect time to think about your own dining room decor and getting set for an unforgettable holiday table.

Designing For Dining Has Changed
Today's new homes include wonderful spaces for entertaining in your own style, whether it's casual or more formal in tone. Take a look at the way model homes are appointed to theme a party or an intimate meal for two. It's easy to begin your planning once you've gathered some great ideas from the experts-the model home designers.

You will see that the days of grandmother's china have been enhanced, and creativity is the mode of the day. Years ago, Princess Grace of Monaco started a new trend by using Murano glass plates in place of china. Princess Diana liked to mix patterns to create her own style. Sharon Stone has been known to set each place with its own special look.

How can you develop a signature style? A great way to start is by borrowing your favorite ideas from the model homes you visit. In the models, tabletop decor is typically themed to color, style or type of menu planned. Designers serve up no food, but create the feeling of anticipation for a variety of occasions. Some of the fun themes showcased at local model homes include:

• FIESTA: Imagine a lunch al fresco on a rustic table set with pounded metal chargers and wooden plates, placed around a chiminea of marigolds and a pitcher of margaritas.
• MANGIA: Pasta for two served up in bright green bowls, with salads on red patterned plates. The centerpiece? A giant bread basket filled with warm, aromatic foccaccia.
• BON APPETITE: Tickle everyone's "francy" with soup du jour ladled from a graceful ceramic swan. Simple blue plates, yellow patterned side dishes, and colorful cloth napkins have guests saying, "Ooh la la!"

Creating a table top that delights the senses involves hunting for the perfect accessories. The Builder's Clearing House is a great place to discover tabletop intrigue. The very table settings you see in the models eventually make their way to the clearing house. At Encore! in Fair Oaks Village we counted 40 separate sets that could easily be mixed and matched to create all of your favorite looks-from elegant and formal to outdoor casual. To complete your theme you'll also find a variety of unique centerpieces with something for every occasion.

So, get ready...Visit the models and the clearing house for fresh ideas. Then get set...Cook up the ideas, toss them together without fear, and serve them up in your own unique style.

About The Author

Kirra Moore, owner of Encore! A Builder's Clearing House, belongs to ASID, BIA, and with 14 years as a model home designer, has garnered many awards for her work. Regarded as an expert in her field, Moore has been published in New Homes Magazine, Builder Magazine, and Builder/Architect. For more information on Encore! call (916) 967-1994 .

Helpful Hints About A home Decorator

by Carolyn Anderson
Co-Principal, Desa Design

One of the most popular trends in home design is volume. Today's ceilings soar to new heights to create bright open spaces that live large. While all this space creates a stunning room, it presents a decorating challenge for many homeowners. As you can imagine, large expanses of wall space can overwhelm artwork. How do interior designers handle walls that are bigger than life? Let me share a few tricks of the trade...

Bigger is Better
It's important to keep in mind that these towering walls require larger pieces of art or a carefully planned grouping. Large pieces can be difficult to find. One of my favorite sources is the local frame shop. Most have poster catalogs with thousands of images to choose from. I especially like Winn-Devon, Graphic De France, and Bruce McGraw Graphics. All of these catalogs offer oversize pieces to match any decor. When looking at artwork keep in mind that you can add to the size of your piece by increasing the size of the matting. On large pieces I like to have four to eight inches of matting. You can also try creative treatments like double or triple matting an image.

The Scoop on Groupings
When you are creating a grouping, try to visualize the final look before you hammer it home, or in this case, into your home. You can use graph paper to sketch the wall space and the art work to scale. This will give you an idea of what sizes and placement will work best in the space.

If you are working with pieces you already have, cut scrap paper to the proportions of the art to be hung, tape the pieces to the wall and rearrange them until you get a look you love. When I am installing artwork, I lay the work out on the floor against the wall I am hanging on. This gives me a feel for the placement. Symmetrical displays of an even number of pieces - which are evenly spaced - is the easiest look to create. Asymmetrical displays work best if the pieces are of different sizes, shapes, or colors.

You can also use large "unconventional" pieces to create a designer look. In model homes I have used iron gates, folding screens, antique doors, huge tapestries, and even a Kimono or a gorgeous fabric stretched onto a frame. Use your creativity and you will be amazed at the results.

Here's a budget option that looks great: Buy a poster of one of your favorite works of art - a VanGogh, Monet, Picasso, Warhol, or whatever you love. Cut the poster into four equal sections and take it to the local copy shop and have it blown up. Frame each section of your masterpiece in ready made or Lucite frames and hang them at equal intervals. Don't be surprised when friends and relatives ask where you purchased your artwork!

Mirrors are another inexpensive way to add a designer touch to a wall. You'll find mirrors in every size and shape. Try a large mirror in a beautiful frame in an entry way, in the dining room, or over the fireplace. You can also incorporate mirrors into your groupings or create a grouping of several mirrors. Consider adding a wall shelf or sconce for added flair.

Once Upon A Potshelf
Commonly found in new homes, potshelves present a variety of decorating challenges. These are the recessed areas in a wall, often located at the top of a doorway. Many homeowners have a tendency to place items that are much too small in these areas. To fill the space, try using large pots mixed with urns and silk plants. Plaster columns are another option. Pottery World has a large selection. You may also want to incorporate baskets to add color and texture.

Not just for plants, potshelves can be used as a display area for collectibles, antiques, sports memorabilia, or old family toys. Experiment with this space and eventually you'll come up with the right look.

If you want to be really dramatic, you can paint the recessed area of potshelves in a contrasting color, then place one or two objects on display. Remember, you don't have to set items "straight on." Try tilting or even mounting objects to the wall above the shelf.

Regardless of the type of home you purchase, the key to success in planning your wall decor is scale. The bigger the wall, the larger your artwork must be. Properly placed artwork should become the focal point of the room. To make an impact as such, the scale of each piece or grouping must be correct. When it comes to wall decor in today's new homes, the best advice is to think big. Do so, and you'll surely create a look that's picture perfect.

Tips For Hanging Artwork
The perfect height to view artwork is at eye level. If you are shorter or taller than average, consider the average eye level is approximately 60 inches from the floor.

Large paintings, which are meant to be the focal point of a room, work best if centered over furniture, such as a couch, or hung over a fireplace or within a large expanse of wall space.

Measure your artwork to find the center of the piece. Allow for the drop of the picture wire and make a mark on the wall where you will put the picture hanger.

Always use picture hooks, which are stronger and safer than nails. Be sure the hooks are designed to support the weight of your artwork. For larger pieces use at least two picture hooks.

Before you break out the hammer, place a piece of clear or masking tape on the wall where the picture hook will be. This will protect your wall from cracking when you hammer the hook into place.

About The Author
Carolyn Anderson is co-principal of Desa Design, an award-winning design firm specializing in model home merchandising. Desa provides an array of professional services including model home design, floorplan critique, marketing consultation, and interior color and upgrade selection. Founded over 20 years ago, Desa was honored at the last Superior California MAME Awards, when all three "Community of the Year" category winners featured model home merchandising by Desa Design. For more information, call (530) 895-8886 or visit Desa's portfolio of award-winning designs online at www.desadesign.com.

How To Get Your Home In "Show" Condition

With today's low interest rates, it's a great time to consider moving up to a bigger, better home-especially if your current home no longer meets your family's needs. Of course, before you can buy that beautiful new home, you'll need to sell your existing home. Which means getting the house in "show" condition. What can you do to make sure your home looks its best? Follow these tips to ensure your home creates a favorable first impression.

Eliminate The Clutter
If you feel like your home is short on space, chances are potential buyers will feel the same way. Before you list your home for sale, take a look around. Are there furniture items that should be moved or placed in storage? Use model homes as an example. Furnishings should clearly define a room's space, but not impede access to walkways, closets, cabinets, or doorways.

Next, you'll want to take stock of artwork and decorator items. No matter how lovely, too many pictures or knickknacks can make a room appear cluttered. Choose a few of your favorite items for display and put the rest away. Think of it as getting a head start on packing for your move!

Other areas you'll want to make clutter-free include closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Your goal is to create the illusion that your home has plenty of storage space. If your closets are packed to the gills, buyers will assume they will not have room for all of their belongings.

Break Out The Home Repair Manual
Before you sell your home you'll need to fix all those little things you were willing to live with. If you're not the fix-it type, hire a professional to do the work. If nothing immediately comes to mind, do a quick check around the house to make sure everything truly is in working order.

Inspect all faucets to be certain that none are leaking. Then check under the sink for leaks below. Take a look at the caulking around sinks and tubs. If it's cracked or discolored it should be replaced. Does the shower head in the bathroom you never use work? If not, it's better to find out now.

Other items to inspect include doors and windows. Do all doors and windows close and latch properly? Are hinges squeak-free? Are door handles and locks functioning properly? What about the closet doors in your home-do they slide smoothly in their tracks?

Don't forget to check the lights in your home. Do all lights have working bulbs? If not, it's a great time to replace those that are dim or burned out.

Clean-Up, Clean-Up
Now that your home is uncluttered and everything is in working order, you¹ll want to give each room a thorough cleaning. If you doubt your ability to make your home sparkle, hire a professional cleaning service. Kitchens and baths are especially important. Sinks and fixtures must shine, showers must be clean, and ideally, grout should be stain-free.

Look at your home's carpeting with a critical eye. If it's dirty or stained, you may want to invest in having it professionally cleaned. If it's too far gone, think about replacing it-with a neutral color, of course.

Also look at your walls. Are traffic areas fingerprinted and dirty? A little touch-up paint in hallways, family rooms, and children's bedrooms can freshen things up. Keep in mind that buyers will perceive a clean home as one that has been well-maintained.

Curb Appeal is Critical
How does your home look from the street? Is the landscaping overgrown or dead? While you certainly don¹t want to invest in new landscaping at this time, you can spruce things up by mowing your lawn, trimming bushes, and removing dead plants or branches. Throw some fertilizer and grass seed on the front lawn if it looks a little tired. Plant some flowers along the front walk or place a pot filled with colorful blooms in the entry. You can use some of these tricks in the backyard, too.

Next, you¹ll want to remove dirt and cobwebs from the entryway and sweep the front walk. Washing windows is another good idea. Finally, don¹t forget to clean your front door. If needed, give it a fresh coat of paint. Remember, this is where potential buyers will form their first impression.

Who Let The Dogs Out?
If you have pets, try to make arrangements for them to be elsewhere while your home is being shown. This is for the convenience and safety of potential buyers, as well as for the security of your pets. Your family would be crushed if a careless Realtor accidentally let the dog out, so if at all possible, don't give them the chance. If Fido or Fluffy must stay home, confine them to the backyard, garage, or a specific room. Post a sign indicating any special instructions. If your dog is unpredictable around strangers, it should be noted on the house listing, as well as on your sign.

The Real World
Once your home is in "show" condition and the "for sale" sign is in the front yard, the real trick is maintaining that model home look while you go about your daily routine. The key lies in cooperation and organization. All family members must cooperate and do their part to keep the house in order on a daily basis. Ask children to help by keeping their rooms neat and putting toys away after play. Older children and teens can do their share by wiping bathroom counters and mirrors after getting ready in the morning. Parents might want to add a few double checks before heading off to work each day. And it's always a good idea to take the extra time to put everything back in its place each night before you go to bed.

If all the work involved in selling your home seems daunting, just think about the reward-a beautiful new home.

by Carolyn Anderson
Co-Principal, Desa Design

My family just returned from a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida . After days of pirates, roller coasters, and merry-go-rounds, we managed to escape Fantasyland and toured Celebration, a destination billed as one of the most promising new towns in America .

Located adjacent to Walt Disney World resort, and founded by a division of the same parent company in 1994, Celebration is an innovative, real town that promotes a strong sense of community and has a touch of Disney magic.

Five of central Florida¹s premier custom home builders, two national home building companies, and three regional building companies comprise Celebration¹s ten featured builders. The community offers everything from million dollar estates to affordable townhouses. Surprisingly, the builders have managed to establish an old fashioned appeal throughout this brand new town.

Children bike and ride scooters to school. Moms with strollers walk along tree-lined streets, while Dads rake leaves in their small but perfectly maintained front lawns. Seeing this brought me back to the charming neighborhoods of yesteryear.

So, what¹s my point? Traditional is back in style! As evidenced by Celebration, all across the country, traditional is big. At this year¹s Pacific Coast Builders Conference, the number of companies offering old world, traditional products-or at least products that had a traditional feel-struck me.

Those who want to lend a traditional feeling to their own home can do so in many ways.

The Power of Color
In design, there is nothing as powerful as color. Choosing rich, traditional colors like cranberry and navy blue can give your home a warm, inviting feel. Try incorporating a few pieces of historical furniture. Or choose transitional pieces in darker woods such as mahogany or cherry to add traditional appeal.

A Look At Window Treatments
Something as simple as adding top treatments to your existing window decor can lend traditional elegance to any room. If you¹re starting from scratch, you can use an inexpensive blind with a non-functioning top treatment above. You can install a basic treatment like this yourself and save money on fabric manufacturing and installation.

If These Walls Could Talk
Mouldings and trims are a great way to give your room an established look. Wallpaper can add an instant historical background to any setting. Look through magazines like Traditional Home and Veranda for ideas, then head to the local home improvement store to flip through wallpaper books. Another inexpensive option is stenciling. You can stencil a traditional motif around any room to add historic flair.

Doors, Floors, and More
From exterior stone trim and richly carved wood entry doors, to cabinets that look as if they were borrowed from a century-old farmhouse, traditional elements can be found throughout today¹s new homes. Best of all, whether you¹re looking at pre-cast fireplace mantels or antique-looking fixtures and hardware, today¹s traditional has the added advantage of modern technology. Finishes on these products are easily maintained, and the materials are surprisingly affordable and durable. Mouldings and trims are often made of lightweight, termite-proof polyurethane. Instead of being hand-carved, these elegant trims are molded, which makes them more uniform and affordable.

There¹s No Place Like Home
We all have such busy lives that our homes have become a sanctuary from all of the chaos of the outside world. After the September attack on our great country, people view the American Dream of home ownership as even more of a privilege. Ideas about creating the perfect home that once felt like Fantasyland are now goals to strive for and cherish. In today¹s world, the feeling of patriotism and tradition is not only in style, it is truly heartfelt.

About The Author
Carolyn Anderson is co-principal of Desa Design, an award-winning design firm specializing in model home merchandising. Founded over 20 years ago, Desa provides an array of professional services including model home design, floorplan critique, marketing consultation, and interior color and upgrade selection. For more information, call (530) 895-8886 or visit Desa's portfolio of award-winning designs online at www.desadesign.com .

by Eric Craven
Content Manager, Barewalls.com

Forget about trends heading west from New York - today, Northern Californians are setting the stage in home decor. America 's youngest cities offer more opportunities for invention, and the chance for decorators to break away from tradition.

Ironically, emerging side-by-side with the cutting-edge technological innovations of Silicon Valley is a yearning for the past. The latest wall décor trends heading east from the coast are centered on nostalgia - a desire for simpler times.

As an online art retailer, Barewalls.com is in a unique position to watch evolving trends in wall art and decor. It¹s interesting to look at what people are really buying and where. At the moment, nostalgia is the guiding force, influencing decor choices more than ever.

Contemporary Nostalgia
Think Cape Cod, circa 1920, with all the trimmings. Men are zoot-suited, shadowy. Women are mysterious. And everybody is dining, dancing and romancing under vast coastal skies.

Whether it is the romantic narratives, or the earthy, natural colors we can only speculate, but prints by contemporary painters Jack Vettriano, Juarez Machado and Raymond Leech are the hottest trends in wall décor today. These painters create what can best be summed up as contemporary nostalgia ­ merging the stillness of Edward Hopper with film noir plot lines to create one-scene vignettes.

Where to hang a Vettriano? The prints¹ soft browns and neutral colors mean that they merge easily with a variety of decorating schemes. But because the colors are not outspoken, these images work best solo, where they can stand out against simple décor.

Café Culture
A hundred years ago, the next trend in wall décor was just commercial art. It was very good commercial art, hand drawn by classically trained artists ­ but advertising, nonetheless.

Today, classic advertising posters are more than mere promotion. Home decorators are realizing the impact of vintage advertising reproductions. As a result, posters offering up everything from vacations to champagne are imparting their whimsical innocence to homes across the country.

Part of the charm of vintage advertising posters is that their subjects seductively address a room. As a result, these images are perfect for more public areas in the home. For example, a vintage cognac poster works well in a living or sitting room, while classic food advertisements are a natural choice for large, social kitchen areas.

Pre-Raphaelite Fairy Tales
A third nostalgic trend is making waves in home décor circles ­ prints of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The Pre-Raphaelites, painters such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti and John William Waterhouse, are renowned for their dreamy princesses and Ophelias, painted true-to-life, with rosy-cheeked idealism.

Why the revival? Well-loved for their dreamlike narratives, Pre-Raphaelite images take us to a world of fairy tales and bedtime stories. Perhaps a little piece of fantasy is the perfect antidote to today¹s harried pace.

Pre-Raphaelite images are sensual, perfect for intimate locations such as in suite bathrooms and hallway nooks. As small, framed prints, alone or in a series, these images work especially well in breakfast nooks, studies and children¹s rooms.

About The Author
Eric Craven is content manager for Barewalls.com. Created in 1997, Barewalls.com was the first company to capitalize on the tremendous potential of selling art prints and posters online. Today, Barewalls.com is the leading print and poster e-tailer boasting more than 150,000 selections ­ from the obscure to the everyday in more than 50 categories. For more information, visit www.barewalls.com .