Home tour- A bold and beautiful purple-hued Massachusetts home!

This Massachusetts home is designed by Mary McGee for a client who loves purple. The results? A bold and beautiful purple-hued home! Let's take a tour of this fabulous home, shall we?

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Photo credit: Beatriz Da Costa

Such a gorgeous home! I really like how the designer incorporated her client's favorite color in various intensity throughout this home for a pulled together, cohesive look. This home exudes style and comfort in a fearless, inspiring way, what's not to love? Are you drawn to this bold abode as much as I do? Your thoughts?  

Favorite room of the week!

This gorgeous six-room suite office space in Manhattan's Upper East Side belongs to Alexa Hampton, the daughter of decorating legend Mark Hampton. A very talented designer in her own right, I like how she cleverly mixes classic style furnishings and uses an unexpected log cabin faux-bois wallpaper to create a polished and refreshing room! Exuding warmth, comfort and casual elegance, this timeless room will stand the test of time, don't you think? I am swooning over this inspirational room! Do you like this beautiful space as much as I do?

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Photo credit: Steve Freihon

5 Tips For Designing the Perfect Space!

Sometimes, designing a space can be overwhelming especially if you do not know where or how to start. Here are a few tips for achieving the perfect space in your home! 

Mix Different Shapes

Play with the lines and shapes in your space. For example, a round rug in a square room will expand the space and make it feel larger. You can use a round piece of furniture to achieve a similar effect. 

This small play on shapes makes it more difficult for your brain to define a specific boarder on the space, causing you to perceive it to be larger than it actually is. 

Leave Space Above Or Below Key Elements

Floor to ceiling shelves, columns and partitions are certainly functional and can provide a design aesthetic; however, I find it much more interesting to mix the space up by raising a bookcase off the floor, using a different material for the top of a fireplace, or using half-height walls if a partition is necessary. 

A similar idea applies when using wainscoting or paneling. The contrasting texture and color provides more visual interest and makes the space more appealing.

Try Every-Day Items for Decor

Do not feel like you need to spend a lot of money on art, accessories and other decor. Everyday items make great alternatives. Nicely-framed children's art makes a great conversation starter. If you are crafty, try your hand at making wall art out of an old map. Even fabric, stapled to a board with some batting or set in a mat within a frame can give contrast and a pop of color. 

Use Patterns and Palettes to Set the Tone

Want a fun family space? Use strong patters and bright colors. Need a soothing master suite? Use a soft color palette with complementary colors. Remember, contrast and irregular shapes provide stimulation while parallel lines and monotone colors are more soothing. Choose a color palette to match the desired tone of the space.

Do Not Forget Practical Elements

Design is all about creating a space that makes people want to be in it. Our minds often lean towards the look of the space, but it needs to be practical as well. This practicality can be as simple as comfortable furniture. It can also be more abstract such as providing privacy and security when needed. 

If you do not know a contractor in the area, see if there is a national chain has a local dealer. Usually, their website will specify the areas in which they operate. For example, if you have security concerns in your design plan, call a national brand that you trust. Then, localize the provider accordingly, using ADT in Philadelphia or whatever city you happen to be in. You do not need to stress over finding the perfect contractor. ADT is a good company and they have someone local. You can do this with practically any service.

Remember, design is about creating that perfect space for yourself! Do not be afraid to think outside of the box to create a space that you will love.

Home tour- A modern and sophisticated industrial chic residence!

This gorgeous home is designed by RS3 Designs for a private residence. By incorporating industrial and rustic elements, this home feels warm and refreshingly chic! Let's check out this stunning abode, shall we?

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Photo credit: Grossman Photography

I can't get my eyes off this beautiful home! Filled with unexpected details, interesting textures and luxury finishes, this home oozes style, beauty and modern sophistication. I love how the designers used various lighting sources in dimmer modes to create a cozy, inviting ambiance. Did you notice the fabulous lucite detail on the bathroom vanity? That stylish bathroom is easily my most favorite room, what about you? Your thoughts?

Home tour- A bright contemporary apartment in Madrid!

This old Madrid apartment received a fabulous makeover, thanks to architect Laura Ortuño and interior Blanca López de la O. The challenge was to respect the existing three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and integrate one en suite, as well as exposing the kitchen with access to a patio. Did the design team rise to the challenge? Let's find out, shall we?

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Such a bright and airy home, don't you think? The warm and eclectic furnishings truly evokes an effortless and collected vibe. I especially like how the designer cleverly designed a backless bookshelves to serve as a dividing element between the dining room and kitchen, allowing natural light to flow from one room to another. I really enjoyed this beautiful home tour, what about you? Thoughts?