#DesignDilemma: Dormer Window in Bath

Everyone has questions as they navigate their space spruce ups.  Sometimes you end up with a list and decide to call in for professional back-up, but sometimes you just have one question that is plaguing you.  I can help!

#Design Dilemma: Dormer Window in Bath

"My guest bath has a dormer window in it which creates this long narrow space. I have no idea what to do with it, it's just collecting random furniture right now. Ideas?"  -Amanda Vaughn

1) I think you need to create a "destination" in your window nook.  It will make it feel like there is a reason for it and create a special spot in what was once an awkward corner.  A built in window seat is just the thing!  It will also add a touch of leisure to the room by implying you have the time to sit and relax after a long bath.

2) I love storage.  Especially in functional spaces like bathrooms and kitchens!  Think about incorporating drawers to store those loose odds and ends.  Your seat height should be about 18" - 20", so if you opt for a cushion be sure the wooden base below is 15" - 17" to accommodate a 3" cushion.  Also, consider using an indoor/outdoor fabric so you don't have to worry too much about water or humidity.

3) If you don't want a cushion you can also do an all wooden hinged top for storage.  If you go this route, be sure to add detail along the base as shown in the image above.  You don't want it to feel boring.  Also be sure to use the type of hinge that locks open so nobody slams their fingers!

If you have a question Tweet to me @BRInteriors with a picture and brief description along with the hash-tag #DesignDilemma.  I'll post your solution on my blog and tweet you back.  If you don't have twitter, you can post it on BR Interior Designs' Facebook page.

#DesignDilemma: Above Cabinet Display Space

Everyone has questions as they navigate their space spruce ups.  Sometimes you end up with a list and decide to call in for professional back-up, but sometimes you just have one question that is plaguing you.  I can help!

#Design Dilemma: Above Cabinet Space  

From @HigherEdGirl: "I have a #designdilemma: the space above my kitchen cabinets. The blank space haunts me daily! Suggestions?"

1. Be sure whatever you decide to display in this space, that it doesn't completely fill the space.  You want there to be room to breathe between the top of the object and the ceiling and some empty space side to side.  I would keep the space above the cook top empty but nestle two groupings on either side.

2.  It looks like you are working with a really great tonal color scheme.  Keep that going with whatever you place up there to make it feel purposeful but with interesting shapes so that it isn't boring!  Mixing materials and sheen is one of my favorite ways to add interest into a space. Like with these pieces, ceramic, smokey glass and metal play nicely off one another. I would place a grouping like this on the side that is a focal point or an area you see as you walk into the space.

 

 

3.  You can also consider storage on top, in the form of an interesting metal basket.  If you are storing something unsightly consider lining the basket with white linen.  If you don't necessarily need extra storage, I love how they placed selenite logs in this image! Depending on the lineal space you have, I would do a grouping of two or three of the same bins.

If you have a question Tweet to me @BRInteriors with a picture and brief description along with the hash-tag #DesignDilemma.  I'll post your solution on my blog and tweet you back.  If you don't have twitter, you can post it on BR Interior Designs' Facebook page.

Fab 5 on Five: Give Away!!!

Everyone has favorites.  The "go to" places or things that are always the right fit for their sensibilities.  Designers are no different!  If asked, they have a list of favorites for any category in design, whether it's their favorite show stopping sofas or their most coveted accessories. Below is another installment of a monthly "Fab 5 on Five", a compilation of my favorite things on (or around..) the fifth of each month.

This month I'm kicking it up a notch.  I'm not going to just tease you with 5 fabulous design worthy objects, instead I'm actually going to give them to you!  April is the perfect month because there are 5 Mondays in which to spread the love.  All you have to do for a chance to make these yours is keep your eyes out for the posts on BR Interior Designs Facebook page and @BRInteriors on Twitter.  There will be opportunities for doubling your chances, so pay attention!

I picked these goodies because they are just type of thing that will look great in any space while giving it a little extra pizzazz. They are some of my favorite staples to give life to a space, without breaking the bank!  The fun starts today and continues until the last Monday in April.

Fab 5: Design Staple Give Away

1) A crisp candle in an classic container.  I think a room with a candle burning feels warm and inviting. With the recent weather change, I like to start burning something with a light scent.  A simple container helps them fit into any decor.

2) A great metal Buddha head from Big Mango.  Add this to a console for a bit of glint and ethnic flair. 

3) A classic herringbone pattern on a neutral throw blanket from Peacock Alley will definitely add some coziness to your space.  Drape it on a guest bed or on the arm of a chair to invite settling in.

4) Coffee table books are a staple that can be placed on almost any surface to express your personality and add color.  I love the red of this book cover, so I removed the dust jacket.  Stack these two together to show your design sense.

5) A $50 gift certificate to Dirt Flowers so you can bring in Spring with an artful natural arrangement.  Give the talented florists a smooth glossy vessel to place the arrangement.  The mixture of textures is something you are sure to LOVE!