When bad builders happen to good houses

Here are some trends that need to disappear…. what are yours?

Vertical blinds on double hung windows – they were designed for patio doors and that’s where they should stay.  For double hung windows, use a roller shade, pleated blinds, drapes – there are so many more options.

6 foot iron fences around front yards… I’m voting ugly.  It’s really bad when there’s only one “stockade yard” on what was a wide open block.   (This one may lead to my disinheritance as I’m the daughter of an ironworker).

Boxes on top of bungalows.  This is when bad builders happen to good houses.  You take a classic Chicago bungalow and someone decided to renovate and they get talked into putting a box on top that completely destroys the look and feel of the house.  Here’s an example of the need to hire a licensed architect – it’s worth the money.

Contractor White Paint… left up 10 years later.  Ok, folks, you can make a commitment to color… let’s take some small steps together and I’ll show you that color will enhance your life – I promise!

Teal & Mauve – together.  Maybe it’s the 10 years I spent in the shopping center industry, but I can’t stand these two colors – they make my skin crawl.  I always think of wreaths covered in dust.

Learn to decorate “green”

I’m giving a talk on “Decorating The Green Way – Using What You Own To Transform Your Space” on Monday, September 28, at the Eisenhower Public Library.  Please bring photos of your room challenges.  The talk is from 7:00-8:00 p.m. and there is no charge.  The library is located at 4613 N. Oketo Avenue in Harwood Heights, Illinois. 

It’ll be a fun, relaxed hour of talking about how you can USE WHAT YOU OWN to give your home a new look – the ultimate in green decorating!   The library can be reached at 708-452-8989.

September Decorating Tips

September is National Home Therapy Month.  Working on your home can provide a sense of peace and quiet satisfaction.  September is a good month to:      

Paint a room that is looking shabby.  A fresh coat of paint remains the easiest and quickest way to transform a room.  

Put away the summer-feeling accessories and bring out the textured items that make a room feel cozy – vases, pillows, chenille throws. 

Frame three summer photos in a large format (for greater impact).  They’ll remind you of happy memories when the rain is pouring and the snow is flying. 

Have the fireplace flue cleaned.  It’s almost always the focal point of a room.  Play it up, but remember – less is more.  Too many knick knacks will detract from its beauty.   

Make sure you have enough lighting in the rooms that are used the most.  One overhead fixture is useful but it doesn’t create ambiance.  Consider using a mix of table and floor lamps.  Dark rooms are dismal.       

Donate those items you never use.  You know that lamp in the corner of the basement that you hate?   The holidays are coming and more stuff will be coming into the house.  One item in, one item out!

Make sure your entryway is clear of clutter and is inviting.  The entryway or foyer is perfect for a small lamp, attractive storage baskets and a mirror.  Make the first step inside welcoming.

Refresh, reclaim, redo… look around your home and see if you can move an accessory or piece of furniture to give  you a mini redesign.  A little change is good and so satisfying when you use wh at you own!