Ten tips for your redesign project

Creating the extraordinary

Interior redesign (also known as one-day decorating or interior styling) is the process of rearranging the contents of a room with an artful eye and great attention to detail, all sometimes without the purchase of a single item.

Most people have everything they need to create a beautiful room, but have no idea how to "put it all together." Redesigners can correct common decorating mistakes made by homeowners unfamiliar with basic design principles, and can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

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It's also eco-friendly. Today's interior designers and decorators are beginning to practice "green" design methods -- the practice of using or re-using resources wisely. An ever-increasing number of products are being developed from recycled materials, and new materials are being developed without harming the environment -- green design just makes sense. How much greener can you get than interior redesign? It's the ultimate in recycling.

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View the room

A typical redesign begins with a room evaluation. The space is analyzed as the redesigner gets to know you and your lifestyle. Most redesigns start with a blank canvas -- almost everything is removed from the room to get a better sense of space. Then it's time to check out the rest of the house to see what else can be used to enhance the overall design.

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Redesigners prowl attics, basements and garages looking for long-lost treasures. A few hours later, both the homeowner and designer enjoy the instant gratification of completely redecorating a room in less than a day. Once the room is complete, you may receive a list of recommendations to finish off the room just so -- the perfect wall color or accessory ideas, perhaps. This list can be tucked away for another day and when your budget allows.

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It's all about balance

A talented redesigner has the ability to relate to many design styles. The goal is to bring out a room's balance and make the most of what's there. This service can also be used when reinventing space for a party, to spruce up and de-clutter a home before placing it on the market, and more.

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Basic tips

1. Create a furniture arrangement that welcomes one into the room. Typically, furniture is lined up along walls, waiting room-style. Instead, try arranging it at an angle, instantly creating depth and interest. Also, place furnishings in relation to the room's focal point, and into one or more conversational groupings, not "screaming distance" apart.
2. Use rugs to anchor furnishings. Relate the rug to the grouping and don't "strand" rugs in the center of a room. 
3. Mix things up from room to room. You'll be surprised how something old can look new again, just by moving it to a new spot. 
4. Place lamps strategically around the room to illuminate every corner. For example, create a triangle arrangement when placing lamps. This will ensure uniform lighting. 
5. Repeat lines -- round with round, square with square, etc. 
6. Use accessories to expand the size of a piece of furniture. A tall, vertical piece can be "widened" by placing artwork on either side. 
7. Keep the eye moving -- create a variety of levels so the eye can travel around the room effortlessly. Balance is key. 
8. Artwork should relate to furnishings. Hang pictures 6 to 9 inches over a sofa or large table, and closer to smaller tables. Artwork hung over a sofa should span 2/3 of the space. 
9. Bookshelves should include a mix of horizontal and vertically placed books, mixed in with accessories. Work in a zigzag pattern from left to right and vice versa when arranging books. Bookcases should contain a nice mix of books and art or souvenirs, placed with care to highlight the most important pieces and to infuse pockets of color.
10. If you have more than three of anything, it's a collection. Group like items together, and corral smaller items onto trays. Rotate collections seasonally so you never get tired of the same look.

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