Design Inspired

I recently have discovered podcasts! They are amazing sources of information found on your phone. While many people binge watch streaming services, I have been binge listening to all things design. As much as I like decorating shows on TV, those shows are still meant for entertainment; while podcasts are full of great design ideas from the greats in design. You can listen to them with your ear buds and you don’t have to stop doing a thing. They get you up close and personal to so many big names such as Bunny Williams, Susanne Kasler, and Thom Felicia while you are cleaning the house or driving to consultation appointments. One common theme that is universal amongst all of the designers I have listened to is that a space should be comfortable, user friendly, and beautiful. This is particularly true of the master bedroom in any home. Let’s take a peek into an expanded Gardenia master suite in which the homeowners enjoy both user friendly comfort and beauty every day somewhere in the heart of The Villages.

• Bed
The bed in this space is a luxurious deep tufted upholstered head board and footboard. Don’t be fooled by the fabric it can stand up to everyday use. The bed is upholstered in a performance fabric which is very durable and will be easy to clean. You can have a high end look that will be comfortable and wear well if you look for performance fabrics. Notice that the bed is easy to make with only three decorative pillows to put into place in the morning.

• Side tables
The two side tables were purchased from another collection but they look perfectly coordinated with the bed. The homeowners hung matching mirrors over each side table to highlight the bed wall and provide more light when the lamp is reflected in the mirror. The matching lamps, side tables, and mirrors create symmetry that provides a sense of calm in the space.

• Bench
The homeowners placed a bench at the end of the bed for additional storage and it provides a place for extra bedding at night.

• Seating for two
The two chairs and accent table provide seating for two. The chairs can also be a place to layout your clothing for the day from the nearby additional closet. Finally, they provide a perch for putting on shoes or just sitting for moment while you watch the TV that is found on the wall opposing the bed. The lamp on the accent table is the third lamp in the space and that will insure that the room has ample and comfortable lighting.

• Area rug
The homeowners loved the palm tree rug and wanted one in the bedroom. The rug looks great laid at an angle to draw the eye into the space. The rugs on each side of the bed are large non-slip bath mats in a great color that coordinates with the rest of the room. These are practical and pretty applications of both comfort and beauty.

• Art
Where the rug ends the art begins. The photograph canvas on the wall is titled, “Aqua Marine Dream” by the fine arts photographer of Florida… Alan Maltz. The art provides a strong but soothing focal point in a room meant for relaxation. The two candle sconces provide the beauty of candle light at night.

• Windows
The homeowners had shutters installed and then the headers were added to the top of the shutter for a more refined look. The window looks crisp, clean, and most of all finished.

• Tray ceiling
The tray ceiling did receive trim work but the homeowners left the ceiling white. When the ceiling is left white it keeps the ceiling high and voluminous which is why the ceiling is raised in the center; to create volume. If you are considering painting your volume ceiling keep the paint light to keep the ceiling high.

• Large mirror
The homeowners ordered a large leaner mirror that is also a lighted jewelry box inside. The mirror leans slightly but it is attached to the wall with a hidden bracket to keep it stable. The large mirror is placed on the first small wall as you turn to the right in the bedroom. This wall also opposes a window and that will provide more light in the space. As the homeowners leave the room they can put on their jewelry and watches, take a quick check in the large mirror and feel confident they look great for the day. The jewelry box mirror is a great application of function and beauty.

P.S. –Attention all club presidents! We give free decorating seminars. It is lots of fun and very informative. Call and schedule your club today. Also, we are on-line check out our web-site at www.ruthdyer.com and you can always e-mail us at ruth@finishingtouchfl.com or Call Ruth your full service decorator at 352-804-2056.

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