Design Advice From HGTV Guest Designers

Design is a passionate endeavor, like creating artwork. I enjoy colorful treatments, adding sparkle, depth or drama to each area. If I have any signature, its adding a touch of fun,something unexpected, joyful. Style should reflect a clients individuality, its important in the initial interview to get a sense of a homeowner's lifestyle and personality.Make your interior reflect who you are and who you want to be. I have the word "believe" on the back of my business card. Interior design isn't cut and dried, it's INSPIRATIONAL. Everybody wants their dream home, and that's where the excitement comes in. I want to develop a trusting, communicative relationship, become a cheerleader for my client and help them envision the and develop the space they have always wanted. Budget is important in finding the very best for your client.

My own living room is done in a rather Bohemian, eclectic style, a mix of old and new. I don't like my furniture in my rooms to look like they were all purchased from the same showroom. You can create an exciting look by mixing the expensive with the inexpensive. It takes an eye to achieve the right balance and keep scale, color, texture and proportion in mind.

Peggy A. Sellwood
P.S. DESIGN
Website: www.inchbyinchdecor.com

"What style represents your work best?" is the question I am asked the most. As easy question to ask, but far from easy to answer as no two clients are alike. "Individual style which is discerned after extensive meetings with a client," is my usual response, wherein actually I could write a book on Defining Your Style.

Where to begin? A simple checklist helps. It may seem cliché, but it will give the framework for building and achieving your goal.

1. Budget (this will really set boundaries)
2. If your home has a truthful architectural style, consider that look or a style that incorporates some of the influences.
3. Recall places you have traveled and look through magazines for feelings and ideas.
4. Figure out if you are into practicality over beauty, or if you are a slave to beauty and will put up with a look that requires extra care.
5. What represents you as far as your home being 'totally you'.
6. What works best with your family life? Comfort, clutter, minimalism? A combination?
7. Color. Figure out what you want to live with and what you don't want to live with.
8. How long do you want to wait to put together the perfect home? Finding the perfect antique or custom design can take time.
9. Can all involved in the household agree on one vision? Chances are you'll have to mix it up to satisfy all. Then go over the checklist for each person involved. At this point, someone has to have veto power if another is holding up the project in an unreasonable manner.
10. Hire a professional interior designer.

Kathryn Waltzer, ASID,CID
Website: www.kathrynwaltzer.com