Interior Design Trends

Interior Design: 4 Paint Tips

2013-09-25T19:12:00.000-04:00

Paint is one of the easiest ways to transform a wall, ceiling, floor, an entire room, or piece of furniture into something entirely different. Color is the beginning of the journey, but it’s far from the whole story. Metallics, suedes, stenciling, and other dramatic effects can be achieved with a paint brush or roller.

1. Be Inspired: Color inspiration can come from anywhere or anything. It can be found in a favorite toss pillow, part of a rug pattern, in a piece of art, or from nature. Your primary color choice will serve as a launch pad for adding fabrics, furnishings, accessories, and other colors.

2. Try Before Committing: Light affects colors. They will look different at various times of day, as a result of the amount of natural and artificial light, and even on different walls in the same room. Buy pint sized cans of a few optional colors, and paint two coats on each wall. Make certain you allow the paint to dry before making a decision.

3. Choose The Right Finish: Flat or matte finishes hide imperfections. Eggshell is my preferred finish for walls - it has a slight sheen which adds an elegant aesthetic, and is easier to clean. Semi-gloss is the workhorse finish, perfect for furniture and areas that need frequent cleaning. High gloss is dramatic, and also easy to clean. I use it for special pieces of furniture and trims.

4. Use High Quality Paint: The better the quality, the finer and smoother the finish, and the more saturated the color will appear. Sherwin Williams' Emerald paint is self-priming - a great time saver.

Source: Sherwin-Williams

Make an appointment for your complimentary 30 minute phone consultation on paint selection.

Browse my website for more color inspiration.

Daily tips are featured on my Robin Lechner Designs Facebook page.

Interior Design: Into The Woods

2013-08-24T16:41:00.001-04:00

Contemporary interiors are often predictable and forgetable – black/white/chrome…over and over and over. I sometimes forget whose apartment I’m visiting because so many of them look alike. For my clients, visual interest is derived from textural variety rather than pattern or color. I temper the typically strict contemporary black/white/chrome color scheme by incorporating shades of gray, stainless, and the organic color and tactile fabrication of wood. The introduction of the patterns of delicate wood graining turn ordinary into extraordinary.

For an ongoing project, the 3/3 condo’s entertainment spaces are pale and airy – far from dull. The cocktail and dining (surface) tables are teak, serving as counterpoint to lightly textured white leather sofa and chairs and white marble floors with subtle veining. The two tables, on opposite sides of the open floor plan, balance and unite the two areas.

Other wood furnishings include custom 130 pound African Mahogany interior doors with a medium dark stain, likewise the kitchen’s cabinetry. Separating living from dining spaces is a rosewood sideboard with exquisite character

Custom Interior Doors by Robin Lechner

Bedroom floors are sanded and stained to carry the warm and welcoming look of wood throughout the private areas of the apartment.

Integrating wood into a contemporary design scheme adds natural beauty. And because designs range from free-form to sleek and crisp lines, you’ll be sure to find pieces that complement your style.

For more inspirational ideas for incorporating wood into your design scheme, contact me at

Robin Lechner Designs,

call 305-940-7892 or 631-848-8469,

or send an email with your questions.

Wood Finishes

Stay Inspired!

Robin

BATHROOMS - Interior Design Trends 2013-2014

2013-08-18T16:57:00.005-04:00

Bathrooms, along with kitchens, are rooms I’m most often called upon to update. If you’re thinking about updating or adding a bathroom, while fantasizing about the enjoyment factor, think too, in terms of its investment value. Redecorating a bathroom will add value to your home so when you sell, you’ll enjoy a return on your investment along with potential for a profit. The amount of profit depends on the quality of materials and amount of wear and tear. That being said, a bathroom should be finished with high quality components and be well planned.

What are the important bathroom trends to incorporate in order to create an elegant, high end bathroom?

Colors – Think of powder rooms as large jewel boxes. They can be any color. I like to dress them up by adding sparkle and a bit of whimsy, sometimes using unusual sconces, wallpaper (remember the ceiling – the 5^th wall), an ornate faucet set, artwork, elaborate (but elegant) accessories, and perhaps a chandelier.

For bathrooms used daily, select colors that flatter skin tones. Pastels in peach, pink, beige, warm whites, sea foam (a blue/green), work beautifully with any décor style. Tile* is preferable to paint. If the room is well ventilated, vinyl wallpaper is a beautiful as well as a durable choice. My favorite wall treatments are architectural applications that have depth and movement. Try sculptural porcelain tiling (see top photo).

Vanities – Continue the use of color onto your vanities. Use unique wood tone stains, keeping the natural grain: light and dark maples, oaks, walnut, stained toast, gray, bleached, for example.

Explore some of the new vanity surfaces like quartz that offers some exquisite designs and colorations.

Fixtures – Double sinks! If you’ve never had them, you don’t know what you’re missing. They’re

worth the sacrifice of space. Keep toilets, sinks, bidets neutral: white, bisque, maybe light gray. Dark colors show water spots and are a full time job to keep clean.

Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Bronze (not Brass) faucets and handle sets with beautiful sleek lines that integrate the other bathroom elements are trending – avoid statement pieces that quickly become dated.

Water saving features, double flush toilets, comfort height seats, and other eco-friendly options that don’t affect performance are gaining in popularity.

Lighting – Like their fixture cousins above, lighting should tie-in with other bathroom elements. Keep them simple but ample. They should go with your faucet selection. I’m partial to vertical frosted tube lights that flank recessed medicine cabinets for ease in applying makeup or shaving. Add to that an overhead fixture and some recessed lighting for excellent total illumination. By giving each element its own switch, you have a range of lighting options.

Floors – Radiant heat (under floor heating) is a luxury that is also practical. It is an efficient way to heat small spaces and reduce humidity. It may not be as popular in Florida as it is in NY, but everyone can appreciate comfy floors that are warm and dry on a cool morning. Marble floors remain the material of choice, but porcelain is a less expensive alternative to marble.

Showers – Install a separate shower enclosure with frameless glass. If there’s not enough

Trending - Sliding 'Barn Doors'

space, explore the option of a p-shaped shower/bath. A swing-out door is more highly valued than sliding doors if you have room.

Style – Sleek contemporary styles and natural materials remain strong, though modern and transitional styles are dominant alternatives.

Furniture – Smart storage solutions hide clutter and maximize space. Vanities, laundry baskets, recessed medicine cabinets, and sleek case goods are ideal to create space in more compact bathrooms and can be used as stylish features in larger rooms.

A Venetian Glass Mirror is an

excellent foil.

The good thing about these trends is that they’re not going out of style any time soon. They work in bathrooms of all sizes, adapt to work with any design style, and add to quality of life – sound investments.

*A Note on Tile: Ask the tile salesman or your interior designer about absorption rate. The greater exposure to water, the lower the absorption rate should be.

For your FREE 30 minute phone or SKYPE consultation, make an appointment HERE + NOW!

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2011-12-08T15:41:00.000-05:00

ANNOUNCING! The official color of 2012 according to the Pantone Color Institute is Tangerine Tango. It's an electric orange red, warm uplifting, energizing, and can be used as an interior design neutral. Works as a great color for an entry hall, dining room, library walls. I don't suggest it for a kitchen or bedroom, but it certainly works for accessory items to add pop to a room.

Need help on adding Tangerine Tango to your home? Call or email: 631-848-8469 or robin@robinlechnerdesigns.com

DON'T MISS ART BASEL!

2011-12-03T09:35:00.000-05:00

Buy great art, or just browse among the greatest artists in the world. Biggest art event in the US, Miami, FL, this weekend only. Great opportunity for interior designers to find new resources.

CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR, NYC

2011-11-18T10:36:00.000-05:00

Contemporary Art Fair, NYC, Jacob Javits Ctr. 11th and 39th St.
Nov 18-20

3 TOP INTERIOR DESIGN INSPIRATIONS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

2011-10-19T18:14:00.000-04:00

Ready or not, the holiday season is already underway. The official start date is Thanksgiving, but the real “kick-off” was the beginning of the football season. Festivities continue from now through Christmas, Hannuka, the New Year, and ends with the Super Bowl. It’s a whirlwind preparation of parties, dinners, and last minute get-togethers. I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown disheartened lugging out the same boxes of decorations and trimmings year after year. Besides, they’re getting a bit worn. It’s time to refresh my home’s holiday décor with a collection of unique and affordable interior design ideas that will carry me through the entire festive season. These are my 3 TOP INTERIOR DESIGN INSPIRATIONS FOR THE HOLIDAYS:

1. Collect colors and patterns that mix and match to create different looks for each event you host. Plaids, stripes, prints, and textures add interest and punch to the look of a room. Pillows, throws, table linens, theme decorations, and accessories are relatively inexpensive, yet carry a lot of impact. If you have a threadbare piece of furniture, now is a perfect time to replace it. Any of the neutral hues mentioned below won’t look out of place after the season, and will give your entire home a lift for the holidays.

Thanksgiving palette: browns, tans, beige, reds, jewel tones illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight add sophistication.
Hannuka palette: Use various shades of blue highlighted with gold. Vibrant white accessories and candles make excellent accents, adding pop to a room or table setting.
Christmas palette: reds and greens woven in with metallics add elegance to traditional holiday decorations. Don’t be afraid to mix gold, silver, copper, and brass; it’s a trend that’s quickly gathering momentum.

Football party palettes: Use the colors of your favorite team. For the Super Bowl, use both team’s colors.

Be adventurous! Add an unexpected twist to your festivities by trying something you’ve never done before.

2. For fun, hold a formal dinner party complete with invitations, long gowns, and tuxedos. Most of us are accustomed to parties with rustic charm, a roaring fireplace, and the t.v. blasting the latest football play. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for elegance.

Make your party a buffet where guests can help themselves. You won’t have to worry about their getting enough food or drink, and can enjoy your own party.

For décor, use candelabras with tall, tapered candles. Instead of the wood burning

fireplace, stack pillar candles in the fire box. It’s an attractive difference that frees you from having to stoke the fire.

Hire a bartender, and a couple of service people to pass appetizers, refill drinks and food stations.

Make sure your table centerpieces are low enough so they don’t block the view across the table. High centerpieces inhibit conversation.

3. Get educated. There’s a lot of help available. Find a designer to collaborate with on some of your ideas. Input from a professional can create added dimension and provide just the right spark. Spending a little money up front can save you a bundle later on. Attend design and craft shows. You can find Florida and NY Calendar of Events posted on our website and blogs. The exhibitors put a lot into creating magnificent displays that I guarantee will provide inspiration. Besides, you’ll have a lot of fun.

Need more information? Try my new internet PERSONAL HOME COACHING program. Send a couple of photos of your challenge with a description, and I’ll get back to you with at least two recommendations. Details are on my blog and website. Looking forward to hearing from you!

INTERNET PERSONAL HOME COACHING

2011-10-08T09:05:00.001-04:00

In keeping with our focus on customer service and client collaboration, Robin Lechner Interior Designs is introducing Robin Lechner’s Personal Home Coaching. Everyone needs interior decorating help at one time or another. Think of me as your personal trainer for providing quality home design advice.

Personal coaching is simple: Ask a question via email accompanied by a photo illustrating your challenge. The fee is $35 payable via PayPal, credit card, check, or money order. Those of us who are computer challenged can achieve the same results by mail.

You’ll receive at least two resolutions to your questions, or your fee will be refunded*. I’ll always strive for the least expensive solution first.

The introduction of Robin Lechner’s Personal Home Coaching will start with some free ideas. Since our success is built on collaboration, I welcome your suggestions to improve this service.

Question: What can I do with a long hallway that is dark and cavernous?
Answer #1: The least expensive solution is to paint the far wall a light and/or bright color that would give the illusion of a shortened wall.

Answer #2: Add a console table and a mirror. The duo shortens the wall, making the proportions fit.

*Refunds are not available whether or not you like the ideas.

HALLOWEEN BLOG TO RAISE YOUR SPIRITS!

2011-09-30T12:06:00.000-04:00

HOW TO RAISE YOUR SPIRITS!

Pumpkin Pillow

Halloween is approaching, and a great way to feel good is to decorate for the holiday. A festive feeling is contagious, and adding a little natural charm to my décor raises everyone’s spirit. These ideas are not expensive, but their value is priceless!

COLOR: Halloween’s traditional colors are orange and black, but don’t limit yourself. Spice up your home with a HARVEST LOOK. Since its autumn, add jewel tone hues of changing foliage. Cut colorful leafy branches from trees, red and orange berries from bushes, and dried grasses to place in vases around your home. Use gold accents that catch the light for sparkle. Add some spirit to your outdoor landscape with a still life using bales of hay, corn stalks, pumpkins, and gourds.

ACCESSORIES:

Pillows: Go ahead - buy a few bewitching theme pillows that can be stored for next year.

Decorations: Years ago I purchased a ceramic pumpkin that holds a candle. I don’t have the messy job of scooping or carving. It doesn’t rot, and I have it forever.

Throws: A chunky woolen throw tossed over an arm chair or sofa in the season’s colors adds charm and warmth.

Having a party? Drape your windows and doors with yards of black, purple, and/or white tulle; weave in clear Christmas lights. Bring your outdoor lanterns inside, add candles, and place them around your living room.

My Pumpkin Centerpiece Recipe: scoop out enough to fit a jar, fill with water, add flowers

Interior decorations bring out the natural charm of your home during any season.

Want more holiday suggestions? Contact us via email, on our website, or blog and get some great interior decorating ideas.

6 FALL INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

2011-09-29T16:59:00.000-04:00

It’s October - the fall design season is well underway. If you check out our Calendar of Events, you’ll see that there are several antique and design shows scheduled in NYC and Florida. The biggest trend Robin Lechner Designs is thrilled to see is what I’ve called Crossover Decorating. What I mean by that is that previously decorated rooms that stuck conservatively to one design period, are now deftly mixing different periods and styles. Another trend that has been around for a while, but is beginning to surface in a big way is the use of Metallics mixed with woods, other materials, or used solo. And the third great trend, one of my favorite colors – RED, is pulling ahead of the pack on the color wheel.

Trend #1 – Crossover Decorating. Crossover Decorating is a bit like a musical composition. The room’s period is the melodic theme, but a composition sounds better with additional musical layers beginning let’s say, with harmony. The concept translated to furnishings find decorators previously adhering to strictly period rooms are opening up to create more eclectic looks by adding an accent piece or two from another era if it’s of excellent quality and pedigree. The resulting look adds interest, depth, impact, and a little surprise.

Vintage Chaise or Settee

For example: If you have a French period room (the musical theme), add a vintage chaise or contemporary console to provide the harmony. Add an antique mahogany sideboard or pair of upholstered fauteuils to a contemporary room. For a traditional living room, add a metallic or snakeskin low table.

Trend #2 – Metallics: A touch of bronze, brass, or copper are welcome additions to our love of stainless steel. These ‘new’ metallic adds sheen and depth and can be subtly mixed. Lighting, side tables, coffee tables, desks, and other reflective furnishings add light and interest to a room, offering an alternative to the popular mirrored furniture. Metallic furniture and trims add another dimension and a fresh feeling.

Trend #3 – Snakeskin: Popular as accessories in the 70’s, snakeskin is making a comeback in every area of fashion and interior design. This time around, however, it’s showing up in every color combination imaginable. Snakeskin adds visual texture even if it’s flat printed fabric. Monochromatic tone on tone patterns make for beautiful textured wallpaper. As upholstery, snakeskin adds interest in pattern with added texture. Genuine snakeskin coffee tables, end tables, and consoles create dramatic additions to a room. Available in every price point - colored desk accessories, vases, placemats, tablecloths, etc. I predict that snakeskin (faux or real) will be the most popular holiday gift item.

Trend #4 – Streamlining. There’s a delicate balance between a cluttered room and one that’s ‘hotel room’ stark. Recent styling covered every surface with books, vases, and collectibles. There wasn’t a place to set a drink or appetizer plate. I’m happy to report that I’m seeing restraint, with room allowing the homeowner to add personal touches.

Trend #5 – Antiques. Antiques add an additional dimension and unique touch to the personality of a room. A coromandel screen softens a corner. An antique desk in a library adds elegance and purpose. A secretary in a foyer brings life into a small space.

Trend #6 – RED! Red elicits more emotion than any other color. From melons and corals, to deep reds and burgundy, its range makes it a very adaptable color. A red room is inviting, cozy, and comfortable, and is perfect for libraries, foyers, and dining rooms. Some feel red is too dark. Red isn’t dark, a room without lighting is dark. Add candlelight and a lit fireplace, and you can’t beat the experience of a red library.

Red is great for foyers. With proper lighting, mirrors, and furnishings red is warm and welcoming. Red also works very well in dining rooms. With a crystal chandelier, gorgeous window treatments, a beautiful floral arrangement, table setting, and muted area rug, the room takes on a very elegant aura of relaxed sophistication.

Red does not work well in bedrooms or kitchens. It’s too jarring to awaken to red walls. We’re in too vulnerable in the morning to accept a color as powerful as red. Kitchens pose the same problem. I feel like I want to put on sunglasses to get my coffee before entering a red kitchen in the morning.

For answers to your personal questions, email Robin Lechner, or add your question to our comments. Don't forget to visit our website or Robin's blog. There are a lot of resources for you to explore!

ECO FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN

2011-09-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

CALL FOR RESOURCES!
Robin Lechner Interior Designs is committed to the preservation of the environment and natural resources. I recommend environmentally sensitive eco-friendly solutions for my interior design projects. Whenever possible, I repurpose furnishings, uses nontoxic paint, flame retardant fabrics, and mold and pest-resistant materials.

I encourage my clients to do their part to protect the environment from use of raw materials, to energy consumption, and waste management. Education and understanding is a big part of the process. I research resources in order to make the best decisions to ensure that every home is decorated with environmentally friendly materials. It’s not difficult to be responsible.

I’m Looking to expand my website’s ‘Green Resources’ web page. Any ‘green’ company that might want a link to my page, please send your link to robin@robinlechnerdesigns.com.

MISSONI HOME GOODS!

2011-09-23T08:10:00.000-04:00

MISSONI home goods are available on line!Don't miss out! Good until October 3rd.

11 CREATIVE, QUICK, AND CHEAP HOME FIXES FOR FALL!

2011-08-28T16:15:00.066-04:00

It’s September! The kids are back at school, so we have a little extra time on our hands. There’s occasional coolness in the air, hinting that fall is on its way. And as the temperature moderates, our energy level rises. The fall Real Estate market kicks off after the Labor Day weekend, but the early birds are already scouring the offerings.

Considering these factors, conditions are perfect to start sprucing up our living spaces whether or not we’re planning to sell. Let’s look around our homes realistically. Face it; our homes are showing some wear and tear with a little too much of that “lived in” look. Our needs and desires evolve, and trends change. There are new design looks, new electronics, and new “stuff” that we’d like to add. If your children are out of the house, you might have a spare room with space to create something entirely new and different.

BASIC TIPS, PRACTICAL IDEAS, AND CREATIVE FIXES to improve your space, and make it look new and fresh.

1. Paint: A new paint job refreshes, and adds new life to a room. It’s the least expensive way that achieves the greatest result.

2. Pulls and Knobs: Change kitchen and bathroom cabinet and drawer pulls. It’s an inexpensive fix that can change the entire character of a room.
3. Appliances: If you’re ready for new appliances, go energy efficient. Sales are everywhere, and you’ll also save money on your electric bill while helping to save the planet.

4. Rugs: Clean or replace carpeting and area rugs. If you’re selling your home, do not place an area rug over carpeting. Buyers will think you’re hiding stains or water damage.

5. Home repairs: Complete any obvious fixes especially leaks. Seemingly small issues may be hiding greater damage. This is most important if you’re selling your home.

6. New Kitchen Sink: I’ve had my sink for 5 years. Although I’m meticulous in caring for my entire home, my guests are not, and somehow, sink damage draws like a magnet!

7. Window Treatments: New drapes, shades, etc is another relatively

inexpensive way to change or refresh the whole atmosphere of a room.

8. Lighting Fixtures and Lamps: A new lamp or chandelier instantly updates a room. Try the link for some great clearance deals.
9. Crown Molding: Add to a traditional decorating scheme, streamline for a contemporary look, or “upscale” the look of a room by enhancing existing crown molding. It has amazing impact when used correctly to highlight a traditional look, or adds a more subtle finished look to a contemporary setting.

10. Art: Framed posters are beautiful, inexpensive additions to a bedroom, den, or any casual room. Enlarge and frame family photos, and hang them in an attractive arrangement that makes a statement.

11. Bedroom Comforter Sets: They come complete with color coordinated sham covers, bed skirt, and comforter. Add throw pillows in an accent color for interest, and hang solid silk drapes that pick up the primary color of the room. I prefer silk drapes for their soft beauty, but make certain they’re lined.

Fall is the Fix-it time of year. Stage your home, whether it’s for sale or not. As a REALTOR, I would stage a home for sale, and when the job was complete, the remark from the homeowner always referenced that they should have done the work when they were living in the house so they could enjoy it more.

My recommendation is DO IT NOW! Don’t wait until you’re ready to sell. You’ll enjoy your home that much more NOW!

RENOVATION RESOURCES:

Home Staging
Where to Find It

Need Assistance Right Away?

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HOW TO GET INSPIRED!

2011-08-13T15:26:00.000-04:00

An Ideal Florida Color Palette!

Anything can be a design scheme inspiration. Mine often come from nature. It is non-static, living, breathing, and stirs emotions. I believe that nature is the source of all inspiration where every form, color, and pattern is expressed in ever-changing palettes.

As an interior designer, each client is an inspiration. Everyone has a unique personality with specific or often times inexpressible needs, desires, and dreams. It is my job and my joy to draw out their individuality, interpret its essence, and express it in a living space that is beautiful, elegant, and comfortable.

If you’re looking for a color palette for your home, take pictures of scenery that inspires you. Cut out pictures from magazines and catalogs. Your designer will assist you in interpreting the photographs to create an interior design scheme.

Find Inspiration at Flea Markets
and Antique Shows

Sources of INSPIRATION are limitless:

Find inspiration at flea markets and antique shows. Find the ‘one great piece’ that will become the focal point around which an entire room’s décor will be created. It can be a piece of art, sculpture, even an exquisite rug.

Water is moving inspiration, stirring deep, underlying emotions. The ocean, lakes, rivers, ponds, quiet inland waterways are each highlighted by their unique surrounding: sandy beaches; tall, graceful grasses; trees and their foliage transformations. As the seasons evolve and the weather changes, emotions shift as well.

Seasonal Transformations Provide
Great Inspiration!

Architecture –notice the shapes of buildings and how they are oriented to their landscape.

I’ve used the ever-changing colors of the sky and cloud formations to create a decorating scheme for an entire home.

Sunrise Cloud Formations

Travels around the world inspire elements of color, design, architecture, fabrics, style, furnishings.

Sunflower Farm

Read! Books provide infinite inspiration.

IS YOUR HOME FOR SALE?

2011-08-13T11:54:00.000-04:00

"You only have one chance to make a first impression".
The Fall Real Estate selling season is fast approaching. So if you're serious about selling your home, take staging your home seriously.

Home Staging is one of the most important marketing techniques in home sales. It’s essential to consider the effect the appearance your home has on serious purchasers. There’s nothing worse than a prospective buyer walking into an empty house, or worse, one that is over flowing with stuff. The goal of home staging is to create a neutral setting where buyers feel at home and can visualize themselves and their family living there. Few buyers have the ability to visualize a home’s potential when there are distractions like family photos, clutter, strong odors, and obvious needed repairs.

Call a professional if you need help. As a Broker for 12 years, rated in the top 2% nationwide, possibly my most successful marketing technique was Home Staging. Now, as an interior decorator, I know what buyers are looking for, and I know how to achieve it in a very cost effective way.

Call 631-848-8469 to talk directly, or email Robin@robinlechnerdesigns.com

THINKING OUT OF THE (DORM ROOM) BOX

2011-08-10T15:48:00.004-04:00

A Dorm Room Should Feel Like Home

My nephew is beginning his first year at college, my niece her second. Neither wants their rooms boxy, sterile, and look-alike. So think out of the box when it comes to decorating the space they’ll be spending a lot of time studying (hopefully), and inviting friends. There are some easy and inexpensive ways to individualize a dorm room or small apartment.

Begin by selecting a color theme. Most dorm rooms are not allowed to be painted, so your expressions of color will have to be found elsewhere. Neutrals create calm, soothing space, and make a room look larger. By neutrals, I don’t mean just solids. Combine prints, stripes, patterns, and add accents with textures or bold, wild colors. Color blocking is another great look, using a different solid of coordinating colors for bedding, curtains, wall art, chair cushions, etc. ‘Boho-glam’ (bohemian glamour) uses eclectic color combinations and patterns from India and Southeast Asia.

Make certain your student has excellent task lighting and a comfortable desk chair. There are so many options available, each can look customized by the color and style you choose. Curtains on spring rods are inexpensive and easy to make out of sheets or lightweight fabrics to add an extra layer of interest.

Blinds are easy and inexpensive fixes. Build a headboard out of wood, covered in batting and a fabric of choice. Hang mirrors to make the room appear larger and add some sparkle. An area rug is always comfortable underfoot.

There’s never enough storage, so add ottomans to use as seating for visitors and extra storage. Closets never have enough storage, so getting an organizer is key. There are some excellent retailers that sell everything from basic school supplies to furniture for easy one stop shopping.

Have any questions? I'd be happy to discuss your needs. No project is too small. Post a comment or ask a question, call 631-848-8469 or email robin@robinlechnerdesigns.com

How to Create a Tropical Oasis and Keep Your Cool!

2011-07-20T15:04:00.000-04:00

Hard Keeping Your Cool?

The days (and nights) of summer are long and hot. A tropical oasis offers shade and protection from sun and rain while providing additional living space for entertaining, dining alfresco, or simple relaxation. The primary aim for a design is comfort and informality. In some locations around the country, these spaces will be able to be used year round.

Size doesn’t matter – the setting can be as simple as an umbrella placed in the center of a table (or a model that cantilevers over the table. Create a colorful tropical setting with bright straw placemats, patterned napkins, colored plastic glasses, bouquets of fragrant flowers, and hurricane lamps. Additional lighting, hung from the interior frame of the umbrella (a great use for x-mas lights), illuminates the entire space. Be on the lookout for battery-powered lighting!

This gazebo is wonderful for entertaining
protected by the heat of the sun.

A deck, terrace, front porch, pergola, poolside canopy, an awning extension, anything that offers protection, provide the basics for a great outdoor room. Decorate your space as you would any room. Obviously walls will not be a consideration. To define the area, there’s a great selection of outdoor rugs that add comfort as well as style. In addition to placing a rug on a hard surface, it can be set on sand, grass, or soil - an extremely beneficial element for those guests who ultimately wear spike heels to an outdoor summer party.

Larger areas can handle larger lighting fixtures. Use lights at various heights: lanterns of different sizes grouped on the floor, on table tops, or from trees; string lights, oil-burning torches; and for a bit of elegant whimsy, find an old brass or crystal chandeliers that burn candles.

This space is large and has seating
and dining areas

Select furniture that is in scale with the size of the space. Some options are wood, weather-resistant wicker, wrought iron, aluminum, and plastic. Bench swings for a front porch bring back an atmosphere of bygone eras, and the simplicity of a hammock for two is very inviting. I particularly like Adirondack chairs (traditional and updated designs) because the arms are wide enough to hold a snack and drink; though I’ve seen contemporary seating with the same features. Soften the mood with water-resistant cushions and lots of decorative pillows. Select coffee and side tables as needed, and perhaps a bar and barstools. Ottomans are versatile for seating and serving, and are easily

moved around. If you want transparency, opt for acrylic, avoid glass.

Add romance with porcelain garden seats and small sculptures strategically placed. Define the space with blooming plants potted in large urns, lattice screens, or trellises covered with sweet smelling vines. Music, of course, adds to the ambience. And if a grill is available, or better yet, if there’s access to a complete outdoor kitchen, you have a truly self-contained and functional space!

Relax, stay cool, and enjoy nature!

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