Lori’s Renovation Realities : Don’t Make The Contractor Your Best Friend

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
This is a tip you’ll thank me for…I promise.  This is a true renovation reality. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fke-XX1PFrc[/youtube]   Stay Inspired!     Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

What Does a Successful Design Project Require?

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Development, Lori Gilder, Remodeling
When it comes to renovating, redesigning or decorating your home, you’ll see that if you follow a systemized plan of action, you can achieve a relatively stress free and highly successful design project.  At this early stage, you may not have a firm grip on the overall direction of your project – but most likely you have a basic notion of which projects will enhance your family’s quality of life. Pre-planning, doing your research and being well organized is the key to a successful project! One of the most important factors for a successful design project is in this video! It’s definitely a MUST WATCH 🙂   [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ji7T_itREM[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Add A Touch Of Luxury At Home

Posted on Categories Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
Even in today’s economic climate people have maintained their taste for luxury in spite of their budgetary limitations.  There always seems to be a little wiggle room when it comes to indulging – and adding a touch of luxury to any space doesn’t need to cost a fortune.

Photo via Elle Decor

For an instant infusion of luxury introduce a wall or two of exquisite wallcoverings.  From the most magnificent laser-cut patterns, flocked textures, subtle grasses, silks and metallics – the products available are endless – and a little goes a long way.

Photo via Elle Decor

Add mirrors into your design scheme.  I’m not just referring to wall hung mirrors – although they’re great – but introducing strategically placed mirrored surfaces into any room of your home.  Reflective surfaces brighten a space and create that extra layer of sparkle, texture and luxury.  A mirrored chest in the foyer or master bedroom, glass or mirrored tiled backsplash in the kitchen, or antique mirror tiles inset mirrored sections framed by paneling and molding to add glamour and sophistication in your living room.

Frette Linens and Towels

Luxurious towels and bed linens are the ultimate in indulgence. They instantly transform your bathroom to an oasis, and your master bedroom into a sanctuary.  Invest in the best you can afford.  Get the feeling and look of richness by cocooning in some Egyptian cotton towels for the bath and Belgian linens for your bed.  The longer the loop the softer and more absorbent the towel and the higher the thread count the more sumptuous the bedding.

Photo via Freshome

Metallic fabrics, fixtures, wallpapers and accessories in silver bronze and gold layered with neutral fabrics are very beautiful and indulgent in formal living room and bedroom spaces.  Whether your home is traditional contemporary or eclectic, metallics add sparkle, shine and splendor to any room.

Photo via Lori Gilder      Interior Makeovers Inc.

For instant sophistication, elegance and a guaranteed wow factor, install a spectacular crystal chandelier into your foyer, living room, dining room or bedroom.  Lighting is a key design element of a space – both practically and aesthetically.  They dress up a casual space and fit in seamlessly within traditional environments.  So for a splash of luxury and a great deal visit the antique markets and architectural salvage yards to find these one of a kind gems.

Photo via Barclay Butera

Splurge just a little by investing in some of your favorite fabrics and trims to create those sumptuous accent pillows to sprinkle throughout your living spaces.  Use contrasting fabrics on the reverse sides for greater flexibility and just flip them when the seasons change. What have you done to make your home feel luxurious?   Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Lori’s Renovation Realities : Clean Truck = Clean Worksite

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Development, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations4 Comments on Lori’s Renovation Realities : Clean Truck = Clean Worksite
We are back again with another Renovation Reality. If your home renovation project involves tearing down walls, building new ones, or relocating and supplementing any plumbing and electrical systems…then you will definitely need to hire a general contractor. Deciding on that perfect person is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during the entire renovation process. While most contractors do fabulous work and come highly recommended, I’ve found there are still a lot of unscrupulous characters out there.  The last thing you want is to be totally let down by the very person you entrusted to deliver your ultimate dream home. So do your best to find the right contractor for you, so all the time and money you spend planning, budgeting and designing your home will be placed in the right hands. So when you are interviewing contractors here is one quick little tip that will go a long way!   [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh5DgucnuTE[/youtube]   Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.    

5 Easy Ways To Freshen Up Your Home

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling4 Comments on 5 Easy Ways To Freshen Up Your Home
Giving your home some TLC doesn’t have to cost a fortune or become a long and arduous process.  Here are some very simple and highly effective ways to freshen up your home any time of year. The images posted below are from 5 highly talented Interior Designers…and dear friends!   (Enjoy the eye candy). 1.  De-clutter it! (Degree of Difficulty – easy)

Photo via Jonathan Legate Interior Consultation        Designer: Jonathan Legate

We build our lives, save our memories, and document every nuance of our children’s growth.  The next thing we know we’re inundated with stuff we’ve accumulated over the years and can’t part with.  Living in a home that is cluttered and disorganized will immediately drain your energy – without even realizing it. To eliminate the mess and get you to a peaceful resolve start by going through every bin, shelf, drawer and cabinet.  Gather all the papers, old toys, books and back issues of magazines you haven’t used in a year – and get rid of them!  Don’t shuffle the clutter from one side of the room to the other.  Purge and remove everything from the space.  Only once everything is cleared away will you able to design, decorate and appreciate your space. 2.  Re-arrange it! (Degree of Difficulty –easy)

 

Photo via Richard W Herb and Associates                 Designer: Richard W Herb

Once you’ve de-cluttered your space start moving things around.  Take inventory of the furniture throughout your home and start experimenting.  Maybe your adorable bedroom chair would look even better in the living room, and those pair of table lamps would revitalize your bedroom ambiance.  Relocate the foyer chandelier in a sleek finish and re-introduce it in the dining room.  And don’t be afraid to swap out the accessories from room to room – you won’t need to spend a dime. 3.  Paint it or Paper it! (Degree of Difficulty – easy to moderate)

Photo via Leslie Fine Interiors               Designer: Leslie Fine

Invigorate your outdated family room and energize your bedroom with one of the new hot color trends of the season.  A fresh coat or two of paint can instantly change the mood, ambiance and energy of a room. Just remember when selecting paint colors for your home its imperative to know what mood you are trying to achieve, how you intend to use the space and more importantly which colors you really love. Create a jewel box at home by installing wallcoverings in a favorite space.  Whether you choose to introduce subtle textures or bold patterns – wallpaper instantly infuses detail and character to your space.  The endless selection of raffias, silks linens and metallics are striking in both traditional and contemporary settings. 4.  Welcome it! (Degree of Difficulty – easy)


Photo Via HGTV Canada      Designer Meredith Heron

Enhance the front entry of your home by exuding a positive energy and flow into your home – for health, happiness and prosperity. Sound good? Start by simply creating a focal point or vignette somewhere in your foyer.  Perhaps a simple console table with a favorite piece of art hanging above, highlighted by a sophisticated table lamp – will evoke a positive feeling each time you walk through your door.  Take it a step further and add a small water element or a mirror on the wall perpendicular to the door.  This will help in create a well-balanced, healthy and prosperous life.

5.  Flower it! (Degree of Difficulty – easy)

Photo via Nest by Tamara              Designer: Tamara Matthews-Stephenson

Adding fresh flowers to your home décor or party table is the piece de resistance in any design project and an instant pick-me-up! Next time you’re shopping for groceries or at your local farmer’s market pick up some fresh flowers and create some fun and unique arrangements. You don’t need to spend a fortune, just look for what’s in season, well priced and colorful enough to enhance your mood.  Place them in colorful glasses, pitchers, bowls or pales and sprinkle these arrangements throughout your home. I do this as a weekly treat to myself – fresh flowers make me happy.

Stay Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.  

Calling All Men: Which Type of Client Are you?

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling
In all my years of designing homes for singles, couples and families…I’ve learned that the dynamic between the sexes can be a challenge at times – however when it comes to the male counterpart – there are typically three categories they fall under… The Enforcer – The Endorser and  The Contributor. So guys…..be honest…..which one are you? [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jki2xg7wzmE[/youtube]   Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

How Do You Design a Family Friendly Home?

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
When I design a family friendly home the main criteria is to ensure it is highly functional, extremely comfortable and impeccably styled. In other words – create a family friendly and welcoming home environment for everyone who passes through the door. In this video I share three main components to making your home family friendly.  I’d love to hear your own secrets on how you made your home work for your family! [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNpAwR_72KE[/youtube]    Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

How Much Paint Will You Need?

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Development, Lori Gilder, Renovations
A little paint goes a very long way and gives you the biggest bang for your buck – and no matter how large or small your project, knowing how much paint to buy in advance will save you valuable time and money.  It’s an easy process involving 3rd grade math skills – which I know we have brushed up on over the years while helping our kids with their homework.  

  To find out how much paint you’ll need for your specific room, first determine the overall square footage of the area you intend to paint – from walls – ceilings – windows – doors and trim. Measure the length of all walls you intend to paint (from end to end) and multiply them by their overall height (from floor to ceiling) to determine the wall’s square footage and repeat the process for each a surface. Paint Tips
  • Typically a gallon of paint will cover a surface area of 350 – 400 square feet. (Check the manufacturer’s recommendation on the label)
  • A standard size door occupies 20 square feet of space.
  • A single average sized window typically occupies approx.15 square feet and an average of 7.5 square feet of paint to cover the trims and sashes.
  • New drywall and unfinished materials will require a primer and at least one finished coat– as unprepared surfaces are porous and will absorb most of the first coat.
  • To ensure a quality job always specify a primer plus two coats.
  • When painting over a dark color factor in two coats of paint.
  • Buy more paint than you think you’ll need.  It will help with dye lot consistency and leave you with extra material for those invariable touch ups.
Estimating and Measuring
  • Measure the length of all walls you intend to paint (from end to end) and multiply them by their overall height (from floor to ceiling) to determine the wall’s square footage.
  • Subtract the square footage of any doors and windows in the space from the room total.
  • Now that you’ve determined the paint-able wall surfaces, divide that wall area by 400 (the square foot coverage from each gallon) to determine the number of gallons you’ll need to paint your walls.
  • Remember to double the amount for two coats.
  • Do the same exercise for the ceiling (tip: your floor area is the same measurement as your ceiling area).
  • Measure the length of all trims, baseboards, coves and moldings in linear feet – and multiply it by .5 for a safe (6”) measurement of coverage. (Paint goes a long way here).
Next decide which finish, brand and color to buy. Paint Finishes Flat Finish.
  • Absorbs light and is very forgiving in hiding small wall imperfections.
  • Suitable for low traffic interior spaces.
  • Poor choice in kitchens, baths playrooms and children’s bedrooms as it doesn’t wipe down well.
Eggshell Finish.
  • Similar to matte with a slight sheen as it dries.
  • Great choice for interiors and washes down much better than flat.
  • Can show slight imperfections in the walls.
  • A better option for kids rooms.
Satin Finish.
  • Has a smooth shine and is very bright and reflective.
  • Wonderful in contemporary homes with perfect wall construction.
  • Shows every imperfection.
  • Works well for trims, baseboards and moldings.
Semi-Gloss Finish.
  • Quite glossy and are used mostly in kitchens, baths since they cleans very easily.
  • The higher the sheen the more wipe-able and durable the material.
  • Typically used on all trims, doors, baseboards and moldings.
Glossy Finish.
  • Used in high contemporary interiors and on modern cabinetry and furniture.
  If you still need some extra help or want to double check your calculations, The Benjamin Moore Paint Calculator will help you out. Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.  

Tips in Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Escape.

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Development, Lori Gilder, Renovations
Outdoor living spaces are gaining in popularity particularly in parts of the country with more temperate climates. If you love entertaining your family and friends, what better way to make that happen than by transforming your backyards, patios and decks into spectacular living spaces.  It instantly expands the architecture of your home and seamlessly connects you to the environment. In this video I share some extremely valuable tips on how to create the ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ESCAPE for your home. It’s all about outdoor living spaces these days! [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaDnXZKTb6A[/youtube]   Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Inspiration For Your Renovation

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
Before you begin a renovation project of any kind it’s important to spend the time to seek out inspiration – and educate yourself as to what inspires you, what moves you, and what speaks to you and your family’s wants and needs. So where do you find this inspiration? Start With Print – The 2D Experience

  The obvious resources such as books, magazines, online design sites, blogs and digital magazines are the easiest and most accessible.  These particular sources are terrific for details and overall themes, and design aesthetics of spaces within a home. It could be a window style, a staircase detail, or a paint color you’re in love with. Just print pages and immediately note what you’re drawn to. Be specific. Is it the 6-burner stainless steel stove, the gorgeous entry doors, the cabinet detail or the sophisticated outdoor living space that you can’t live without? Collect these ideas and begin your “Inspiration” File.  This is a great start – yet it’s only 2-Dimensional inspiration.  From these pages it’s extremely difficult to experience the physical feeling volume and space. Venture Out – The 3D Experience

  Get yourself out there into your community and walk into some open houses in and around your neighborhood. Seeing and feeling the way others live and the ideas they’ve implemented into their homes may actually inspire you in some way. The 3-Dimensional experience of physically walking into a home and experiencing the environment provides a truer perspective. How do the homes of your friends who share similar lifestyles to yours feel – and how could you implement those “must haves” into your home and make them your own? Drive around and notice the homes’ exteriors as well. Are there certain rooflines you feel will complement your proposed addition? What about the façade and the materials they’ve used? Is it board and batten siding you love for that cottage feel or concrete and wood for the contemporary design you’re drawn to? In fact just yesterday after a site meeting, I hopped into the car with my client and took a quick drive through her gorgeous neighborhood looking at porch, trellis and pergola details – which we will be incorporating into her home as well.  It really is the best way to see the plethora of design options and details in a 3 dimensional environment. Take as many digital photos as you can, print them out immediately and write while your thoughts are still fresh and your memory sharp – and be specific with what inspired you.  Then pop then into that file! Finally, don’t forget the “Shows”!
  • Home Builder Shows
  • Kitchen and Bath Shows
  • Designer Showhouses
  • Contemporary Fairs
  • Antique Marts
  • Travels/Hotels
Where have you found your greatest inspiration for your home renovation projects?   Stay Inspired!       Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.