Q & A

Q. How do I get the ‘spa’ look in my bathroom?

A. It’s all in the details. Bring in some of the key elements below and find what works for you:

1. Paint colour – keep it light and neutral (pale blue and green are considered neutrals)
2. Shower curtain – white waffle weave or other subtle texture
3. Brushed nickel robe hook(s)
4. Scented candles or reed diffuser
5. Rolled white towels in a wicker basket
6. Splash out on luxury hand soap and moisturizer
7. Upgrade your mirror, go large and horizontal if possible
8. Install a shelf and add a moisture-loving fern
9. For the window: white blind or wooden shutters
10. Accessories such as seashells or starfish
11. Don’t forget a framed picture to pull it all together
12. Change out the light fixture or even the lightbulb if it casts a harsh light

Please, no “Hollywood” lighting. It’s out of style. And install a dimmer switch, you’ll be glad you did!

Don’t forget closed storage, this look will not work if your bathroom is cluttered.

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Photo credit: http://www.HGTV.com

Q. How do I decorate surfaces, e.g. coffee table, end tables, kitchen/dining room table?

A. This sounds obvious, but I know what you’re saying. Here are classic solutions:

1. Coffee Table: a stack of coffee table books and a shallow bowl or small vase of fresh-cut flowers
2. End Tables: lamps, fabulous lamps that help define the entire room and cast a wonderful light
3. Kitchen Table: invest in a beautiful bowl and fill with fruit, substitute candles and flowers for dinner parties

The honest, simple things are timeless. If you make the effort to regularly bring in flowers, you’ll never be bored.

Hiding behind this question is what you should change. Re-arrange furniture and items or accessories on your shelves, consoles and bookcases. Try mirrors or artwork in a new room for a refreshing change of scenery.

Photo credit: domino

Q. How do I get a hotel-look bedroom?

A. This is a very symmetrical and structured design. Here is what to look for:

1. Oversized headboard – the focal point of the room
2. Crisp snowy linen or cotton bed sheets
3. Tailored bedspread or luxurious duvet
4. Matching night tables and lamps
5. Dressing table or desk and seat
6. Heavy draperies and thick carpet underfoot
7. A chair and footstool, ideally a cosy reading nook with a floor lamp

The photo below is a wonderful example of Hollywood Regency Style.

Photo credit: www.moderndesign2.com