Freshen Up Your Home With Color

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design5 Comments on Freshen Up Your Home With Color
Bring a new dimension and experience to your life by transforming your home inside and out with new colors. Invigorate your outdated family room and energize your bedroom with one of the new hot color trends of the season.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. 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. Are you drawn to calming neutral schemes or bright colorful spaces? For thousands of years China, India and Egypt have studied the philosophies and relationships between color and energy – in order to strike a spiritual balance in their lives. So before you head down to the paint store, here is some insight into the mood provoking colors of the rainbow and the energies they emit.

Red
  • Its intensity has a stimulating and exciting effect.
  • Is a warm and seductive color that exudes power and confidence.
  • Wonderful in elegant dining rooms, bedrooms and powder rooms.

Photo: via House Beautiful    Dressing Room

Orange
  • An energizing, lively and an invigorating warm color.
  • Evokes enthusiasm, self-confidence and creativity.
  • Great as accent walls in living rooms, dining rooms and baths.

Photo via Elle Décor             Kid’s Bathroom

Yellow
  • Rejuvenates and stimulates your mind, body and soul.
  • Sparks imagination and innovation.
  • Epitomizes warmth and an optimistic outlook to the future.

Photo via Country Living

Green
  • A very popular color due in part to its calming and restful affect.
  • Varying shades of green evoke a stable and secure environment.
  • Creates a sense of balance and harmony.
  • A cool nurturing color that promotes healing and re-growth.
  • Ideal for bedrooms, baths and dens – an ideal color to blend into the natural environment.

Designer: Lori Dennis

Blue
  • Represents communication, reliability, peace, tranquility and truth.
  • An intellectual color that evokes a protective mood.
  • Is an expansive color and tends to visually enlarge a space.
  • Is a wonderful bedroom accent color – due to its calming effect.

Photo: Simon Upton   Designer: Nate Berkus

Indigo/Violet
  • Color of spirituality and intuition.
  • Defines elegance and refined luxury.
  • Represents a sense of power and royalty.
  • Perfect color for studies, libraries and bedrooms.
  • Works beautifully with rich woods and metals.

Photo via House Beautiful                  Library

Neutral
  • Brown, gold and grey are easy on the mind’s eye and sooth the spirit.
  • Brown used in moderation inspires elegance and richness.
  • Incorporating natural materials and elements in any space will evoke a more balanced atmosphere.

Photo via Décor Pad

Black and White
  • White represents simplicity, cleanliness and vibrancy when in perfect balance.
  • Black is an absorbing color and is best used as a stabilizer and anchor.
  • Used together creates a dramatic environment.

Photo: Joshua McHugh for Architectural Digest

Always consider the mood and energy you want to create in your space – paint a few sample walls – then go for it! Which colors are you drawn to? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Kitchen & Bath Trends – KBIS 2011

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design8 Comments on Kitchen & Bath Trends – KBIS 2011
Last week I was in Vegas attending the annual KBIS (The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show).  There were many inspirational and innovative products exhibited and launched at the show. I want to share with you a few of the emerging kitchen and bath trends that we will be seeing a lot more of – along with a few of my personal favorites. A Few Show Trends Technological Innovation: Going digital is a trend that is sure to become the standard over time. Water conservation and temperature control setting shower systems are leading the way from manufactures such as Moen’s ioDIGITAL vertical spa and the DTV Prompt Shower System from Kohler.

Kohler DTV Prompt Digital Shower System

For the ultimate in toilet technology – Kohler’s state of the art Numi Toilet features a motion -activated lid and seat, touch screen remote, retractable bidet, air dryer, heated seat, feet warmer, air deodorizer, and music docking station. For $6,400 this throne could be yours!

Numi Toilet by Kohler

Retrofit For A Quick & Easy Change: Whether renovating, remodeling or simply retrofitting, here are a few products that are making it easier than ever before to upgrade homes with ease and style for the self proclaimed DIYer. For the kitchen, Kohler has introduced two 7” Apron-Front (or farmhouse) sinks. The Vault – available in stainless steel is perfect for a contemporary/urban designs and the Whitehaven – constructed of Enameled Cast Iron can easily integrate into any existing classic and traditionally inspired home. I sat in on the presentation from HGTV’s Monica Pederson – Host of “Bang for Your Buck” where she explained along with her plumbing specialist, how easily these products can be integrated into existing standard kitchen cabinetry.  The best is – the depth of the sink is 9”, but the apron itself is reduced in order to fit into a standard base cabinet. Brilliant!

The Vault by Kohler              Stainless Steel

The Whitehaven by Kohler            Cast Iron

Another consumer-friendly product providing great retrofitting capabilities is Moen’s M-PACT Common Valve System.  This allows the homeowner to easily change out the bath and shower faucets by eliminating the need for a plumber.  It’s really as simple as changing a light bulb – unscrew the old faucet and replace with a brand new design.

Moen’s M-PACT Common Valve System

Personal Favorites Ann Sacks: Many of you, who’ve worked with me, know how much I adore Ann Sacks tile.  Their exquisite product lines and designs are due in part to their collaboration with such prestigious designers such a Barbara Barry, Michael S. Smith – and now Vicente Wolf is added to this illustrious list.  Vicente was in Vegas at the KBIS show launching his new Vicente Wolf Textures Collection for Ann Sacks. Mr. Wolf created seven stunning tile designs, which reflects the designer’s appreciation for “the way nature engages the senses”.

Vicente Wolf                   Waves

It was a true highlight for me to meet Vicente, whose work I’ve admired for years.  He was engaging, delightful and very insightful into the business of Interior Design – and our conversation regarding the design industry was very enlightening.  He was very candid, honest and a true pleasure to meet.

Ann Sacks Booth with Vicente

Another favorite is Brizo’s very sexy bathroom faucet – “Charlotte” which was introduced at KBIS.  This distinctive Art Deco inspired bathroom faucet, available in Polished Nickel and Cocoa Bronze, will work beautifully with many stylized bathroom designs. It will be available for shipping later this year.  Check back soon to Brizo website for more information.

Brizo’s New “Charlotte” Faucet

Brizo’s Booth

Which of these kitchen and bath trends featured can you visualize in your home? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Interiors Fit For Royalty

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design

Photo: John Stillwell/Corbis

I have a confession to make.   I’m a Royal Wedding geek!  I can’t wait until Friday morning 4am where I’ll be whisked away to London’s Westminster Abbey (along with a billion or so other guests – who’s invitations were lost in the mail along with mine) to witness the pageantry, the spectacle, and the Pomp and Circumstance of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s lavish Royal nuptials. The spectacular gothic architecture of the Abbey with its elongated walls and vaulted ceilings, vibrant stained glass windows and spectacular colors and textures make this the ideal setting for the “Wedding of the Century”.

Westminster Abbey

I’m particularly interested is seeing “Catherine’s” choice of wedding gown.  Nina Garcia, the Marie Claire fashion director and “Project Runway” judge, considers Kate Middleton’s style as “contemporary, sophisticated, easy, effortless, and often sporty.” “She often dresses conservatively but it’s very ladylike,” says Garcia.  I’m eager to see which style of dress she will choose to wear.

I’m also fascinated to see how Kate’s “contemporary, sophisticated, conservative and sporty fashion style will translate into her interior design style? Kate and William have hired “family friend” Beverly Hills Interior Designer to the stars Kenneth Bordewick to makeover their 4,000 sq. ft. farmhouse in North Wales.  Kenneth is a friend of Prince Charles and previously designed the library at London’s royal Clarence House. “They want it to be casual and contemporary.  It won’t be classical or old-fashioned at all” said Kenneth. “They know that the rest of their lives is going to be very traditional and want to let their hair down now with a typical young, newlywed house.” he said. So based on this client profile, will William and Kate’s casual and contemporary farmhouse contain undertones of a more Country Classic approach, a Traditionally Elegant ambiance, or Transitional Chic environment? By the way I hear Kate loves to cook – so all eyes are on the kitchen as well. Kenneth shares these 2 interiors below, which give us a glimpse into William and Kate’s “Royal Taste.”

Designer:  Kenneth Bordewick                          Beverly Hills Luxury Interiors LLC

Designer:  Kenneth Bordewick                           Beverly Hills Luxury Interiors LLC

I also wanted to share a few more images with you that I feel are fit for the couple’s farmhouse design aesthetic. Enjoy – and let me know which ones make you feel regal?

Classic Bathroom

Designer: Mary McDonald

Designer: Kathryn Ireland

Designer: Mark Cutler

Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Earth Day is Friday April 22

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design4 Comments on Earth Day is Friday April 22

Whether you’ve made the commitment to save the planet and completely reduce your carbon footprint or simply select more eco-friendly materials and furnishings, it’s easier than ever to implement green and sustainable products into your home renovation and design projects. Making this transformation and creating a more healthful and energy efficient home doesn’t have to happen all at once. It can be as simple as replacing your old appliances with the Energy Star Line or using low or zero VOC paints on your next decorating project. Here is a very small list of some great resources for you to research before you get started on a kitchen or bath remodel.  Educate yourself on all the available materials out there, as they will provide you with a greener home and a much healthier lifestyle. COUNTER SURFACES: A beautiful slab material with the look of natural soapstone or limestone from Squak Mountain Stone – is a composite of materials – made from recycled paper, glass, coal fly-ash and cement.  This environmentally friendly slab is an ideal material choice for countertops and tabletops in both contemporary and traditional homes.

Squak Mountain Stone

Wood is a fabulous material for butcher-block counter tops and flooring. When these woods are locally grown, sustainable or FSC certified, they will rate quite highly. Concrete countertops are popular in contemporary settings, and don’t off-gas.  They are considered greenest when locally fabricated and mixed with cement alternatives and recycled aggregates. Quartz surfaces like CaesarStone, is available in a plethora of gorgeous finishes and colors – is easily maintained, and has an endless life cycle.  They also manufacture a stunning recycled quartz collection. FLOORING: Reclaimed and Recycled Hardwoods are the ideal choice for beautiful flooring, walls, beams and mantles.  Mountain Lumber rescues its materials from long standing buildings that are scheduled for demolition and transforms the wood materials into many other incarnations.

Mountain Lumber Reclaimed Mantle

Marmoleum or Linoleum tile is constructed of Linseed oil, jute, limestone and other components that collectively provide for an incredibly strong and durable product. Cork is not only sustainable and renewable (like bamboo), but is extremely soft and comfortable under foot. Recycled Leather Floor Tiles from EcoDomo (made from recycled leather, natural rubber and Acacia Tree Bar) develop a rich patina over time and prove to be an extremely resilient floor surface.

EcoDomo Recycled Leather Tiles

CABINETRY: Cabinetry can easily be refaced or repainted with low voc or zero voc paints – which are the greener alternative. If your older cabinets no longer fit into your renovation plans then consider re-using them somewhere else or donate them to your local Habitat For Humanity Re-Store. FSC and sustainable woods that is formaldehyde free – and finished with a low voc sealant – is a green alternative to recycling your old cabinets.  An interesting alternative to wood is a veneered wheat board composite.  The straw fibers are combined with a formaldehyde free resin and then painted with low or zero voc paint.

FSC Certified Cabinetry w/ Natural Oil Finish

Building, designing and decorating green is really an exercise in sensibility. So if you are thinking about renovating, remodeling or retrofitting, which simple “green” materials will you incorporate into your project? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

When To Hire A Professional

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design2 Comments on When To Hire A Professional
As many of you may already know over the past few months, I’ve been participating in a “blog off” hosted by elocal USA – the Nation’s #1 Online Directories. This series brings interior designers/ bloggers and home professionals together to discuss the hot trends and topics in the world of home improvement and design while providing useful information and engaging conversation to you (the homeowner). This week’s Blog Off Question: When and Why Should a Homeowner Hire a Home Professional? Click here to Find out! If you’re planning on a home renovation, design project or simple updates to your home this summer – then isn’t it time to take those necessary steps to turn your vision into a reality? I realize that some folks feel the DIY route is for them (thinking it’s a money saver) where others aren’t clear on the true value and expertise we professionals offer or even which professional to hire for a particular project. Depending on the scope and size of your home project, hiring the right design or trade professional will not only guide you through the decision-making process easily – but save you substantial time and money in the process.  Hiring the right home specialist eliminates any planning disasters and logistical nightmares that tend to come with home improvement and design projects. Q:  So why hire an Interior Design Professional? A:  To create the “best” possible solution for your design dilemma!

Your home has a heart and soul. Shouldn’t it be treated with the same respect and dignity you deserve? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Show Your Home In The Best Light

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design4 Comments on Show Your Home In The Best Light
I think its safe to say that lighting is one of the most important design elements in interior design – and getting it right the first time can make or break a space. I’ve walked into many homes over the years that – for lack of a better term are – light deprived.   It makes me wonder why lighting appears to be an after-thought for so many?  Some view it as nothing more than serving a basic function – while others “get it” by instinctively using multiple light sources any chance they get. The proper placement of ambient (general), task and accent lighting simultaneously, provides overlapping pools of light, which instantly creates a very dynamic and dramatic interior. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating your existing or you’re simply ready for a quick lighting makeover – creating a well designed lighting plan (no matter how large or small) will instantly take your room from drab to fab.  Lighting affects our moods.  Brighter spaces stimulate our senses while more dimly lit rooms create a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. So ask yourself:
  • Is your room well-lit or riddled with shadows?
  • Does the lighting in each space function well for each task?
  • Do you have single or multiple light sources in every room?
  • Are your lighting fixtures stylish – or outdated?
  • Have you highlighted a special feature in each space?
  • Are you creating the atmosphere you’re craving?
Consider some of these solutions to help you achieve the ambiance and style you’re hoping to create at home.

Designer: Candace Olson

In this kitchen a combination of recessed fixtures, pendant lights, a chandelier, under cabinet and accent lighting melds both style and function.

Photo Credit:  Barry Grossman

Think of your living spaces in terms of zones – and light them accordingly.  Make sure each are on separate switches and dimmers whenever possible.

Designer: Nicole Sassaman

A combination of light sources in this transitional dining room creates instant ambiance.  The recessed ceiling fixtures highlight the artwork and wash the walls creating a mellow “glow”.

The simplicity of the lighting design in this Zen bath creates the ideal atmosphere!

 

Image Via: Apartment Therapy

This table setting definitely has the “wow” factor – for spectacular drama and atmosphere? Are you ready to set some time aside and devise a lighting plan for a favorite room in you home? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

The Charm of A Home Library

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design6 Comments on The Charm of A Home Library
If you are a voracious reader with a book collection to prove it – then it’s time to create a retreat within your home where you can “unplug” from the daily grind – and decompress and relax among your favorite books.   And what better place to do this than in a home library. Decorating a room with books never gets old.  It provides warmth and character to the space instantly drawing you in.  Relaxing among books  somehow warms our souls as we surround ourselves with longtime friends and curious adventures. Whether your home is spacious enough for a dedicated “library”, a mini- library or a transformed  corner of a room– there are a few key elements to keep in mind:
  • Designate a quiet area within your home where traffic is at a minimum.
  • Take inventory of your collection and assess whether the newly designated wall space is able to house them all – if not pick those in the best condition and donate the rest.
  • Make sure that this space is able to tolerate floor to ceiling bookshelves and the excessive weight of the books it will hold.
  • Prevent the shelves from bowing by increasing their thickness to 1 ½” thick.
  • Design the shelving to reflect the style and integrity of the home and have them fastened together and scribed to the wall for greater strength.
  • Select a material and finish that best showcases your collection. (Shelves painted a dark blue or black allows for the books to pop)!
  • Provide a functional floor plan/layout. Have the shelves easily accessible with ample seating to curl up in.  A simple furniture arrangement such as a pair of oversized chairs, sidetables and lamps may be all you’ll need.
  • The proper lighting in your “library” will have a great impact over the space – and highlight your gorgeous collection. The combination of natural, general  (overheads, preferably on dimmers), task  (lamps with tri-light bulbs) and accent lighting (lighting shelves, plants, art etc.) will provide you with the best overall result.
Home libraries can be implemented anywhere.  So take a good look around your house – and see if any of these locations work for you.
  • Beneath the stairs
  • In a hallway
  • Around doorways and windows
  • Within the living room
  • An unused corner of a room
  • Loft or upper mezzanine landing
  • Bedroom
  • Family room
  • Home Office
  • Dedicated library retreat (its own space)

These deep dark shelves highlight the colorful collection – and the table and chairs vignette functions perfectly!

Photo: Cote de Texas

Incorporating window seats and bookshelves into this hallway immediately transforms it into a highly functional and beautiful space.

Photo via Patricia Gray Blog

This ideal home library nestled directly beneath the stairs fits in seamlessly with the overall design of the home – creating a multi-functional living space.

Photo via Apartment Therapy

Here is a clever use of space in a very quaint room.  The shelving wrapping around the entrance frames the doorway, highlights the neighboring space and creates a focal point within the room.

Photo via House Beautiful

I just love the dark cabinetry offset with rich bursts of red.  The lower base cabinets visually anchor the tall shelving unit.

Photo via Southern Accents

A stunning two-story library showcases the owner’s extensive book collection and the home’s spectacular architectural styling as well. So where is the best place for your library space? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

The Elegant Beauty Of Arches

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design1 Comment on The Elegant Beauty Of Arches
Whether you’re designing your home from the ground up, remodeling your existing space, or simply redecorating within – homeowners are no longer satisfied with living the cookie-cutter-lifestyle in a one-size-fits-all floor plan. Embellishing, enhancing and styling your home’s interior by incorporating specific architectural details into the mix will help you achieve your ideal home environment – and undoubtedly set your home apart from the rest. These details can be considered anything that adds visual interest, texture, character and charm to the integrity of the home – while fitting in seamlessly with the structure’s architectural style. Some architectural details may include:
  • Wainscoting /board and batten
  • Moldings and baseboards
  • Doors and windows
  • Staircase and railing details
  • Ceiling beams or coffered details (when applicable)
  • Fireplace mantles and surrounds
  • Wall niches
  • Columns
  • Arches………….
To infuse instant grace and glamour into your home – introduce an arch or two into the mix.  They can act as a framework highlighting a spectacular outdoor view, separate rooms from each other, create a focal point within a space or act as a portal from one space to the next.  Either way, the options are endless. Many arch styles exist but the 3 most common ones are: The Soft Arch: The soft arch is also referred to as the segmented or eyebrow arch – where it is a segment of a circle.  These work beautifully with both high and low header heights.

Soft Arch:                      Photo/Design: Lori Gilder Interior Makeovers Inc.

The Half Circle Arch: The half circle arch is reminiscent of Roman Architecture and is typically introduced into more Tuscan, Spanish Colonial and Traditional interiors. This arch tends to require more generous ceiling heights due to radius of the arc.  You typically would like a minimum of 6’-8” at the lowest portion of the arch.

Half Circle Arch Photo Via Houzz      Design: Summerour Architects

The Elliptical Arch: Lets just say the Soft Arch + Half Circle Arch = Elliptical Arch. This elliptical shape has a much more subtle radius in the center and a tighter corner radius.  It is a true combination of the segmented and roman combined and is able to generously span greater widths.

Elliptical Arch Photo via Elle Décor

Here are a few more inspirational ideas for you to enjoy.

Photo via Country Living

Photo Via Architectural Digest.           An enclosed outdoor space turned office.

Photo via Elle Décor

Photo via House Beautiful

Photo via House Beautiful

Which arch is your style? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Beautiful Space Saving Details

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design2 Comments on Beautiful Space Saving Details
Space can be at a premium these days and maximizing every square inch can really make a big difference. I love to incorporate “niches” of all kinds into my design projects. These recessed nooks, crannies, cubbies and alcoves (or whatever else you’d like to call them) can be integrated anywhere in your home and instantly adds a charming detail and focal point in whichever room it occupies.  A niche simply defined – could be a recess within a wall (which is ideal for extra storage and/or highlighting your collections) – or a recess, angle or obscure nook within the architecture of a room itself. So take a look around your home to see how you can make the most of your space by creating that ideal niche or nook to fit into the favorite room of your house.
  • Could you utilize the space beneath your stairs for display shelving, a bar area or reading nook?
  • Is there ample wall space in your foyer or hallways to create that niche to showcase or highlight your favorite object or piece of art?
  • Do you have a window alcove (a projected bay or bow window) in your living room, dining room, kitchen or bedroom for that ideal banquette or window seat? If so make sure to provide large storage drawers below the seat for easy access to your supplies.
  • Is there sufficient space within your living room or family room walls to recess bookshelves?
  • If you’re renovating your kitchen have you considered incorporating a recessed niche with shelves over your stainless stove to create a unique focal point?
  • How about some beautiful display niches within the decking of your bath tub or vertically within the walls located at the head and foot of the bath?
  • Does your laundry room/mudroom provide you with enough storage?  This would be the ideal area to introduce niches and cubbies for sports equipment, backpacks, heavy outerwear and dog supplies.
Here are some fabulous ideas in all design styles to inspire you!

Photo: via Southern Living Magazine

The crisp white walls enveloping this reading nook clad in bead board – and the simple molding of the seat’s base compliments this cottage’s casual and style.

Photo: via Cococozy                Designer: Vanessa de Vargas

This integrated wall niche becomes more of an architectural element in this modern home and simply showcases the pure elegance of the glass vase.

Photo: via House Beautiful

This very charming window seat/banquette spans wall to wall and is tucked into the recess of the gorgeous garden window.

Photo: via Elle Décor                           Photographer: Simon Upton

Here the formal living room maintains its sophistication and elegance by keeping it simple.  Painting the interior of the display niches a deeper color – provides instant drama and allows the objects to pop – which ultimately creates a striking focal point within the space.

Photo via Remodelista

Here a series of uniform niches to store various sundries is both practical and attractive in this pristine bathroom. The design possibilities are endless – so next time you’re looking for a little extra space, include a niche into your room or better utilize those nooks and crannies! Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.

Make a Splash With The Perfect Water Feature

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect table fountain for my foyer. Ideally – something zen-like to place next to my favorite Buddha.  I love water and I’ve always loved the way it makes me feel.  I knew at a young age that I’d ultimately need to live on one coast or another – being land-locked never felt right to me.  And although I’m now living in Los Angeles, I’m not close enough to the ocean for my liking – so I’m feeling the sudden urge to bring the water to me.

Stainless Steel Table Fountain

Just the sight and sound of water cleanses and soothes the body and soul.  Somehow the sound of trickling water in the distance is both soothing and energizing at the same time. Studies prove that when water is sprayed waves of negative ions are released into the air, which in turn increases the serotonin levels in our bloodstream. This increase in serotonin boosts our energy level, improves our moods and keeps us healthier.

Photo: Water Studio   Designer: Jennifer Post Design

Photo Courtesy of Water Studio

So why not soothe your soul, energize your spirit and beautify your environment by incorporating an indoor or outdoor water feature into your home?  It will instantly add beauty, sophistication and attract positive energy into your life.   The design possibilities are endless.   A little bit of water goes a long way – so be creative and set your home apart from the rest. Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave 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.