Some rules are meant to be broken

It’s time to break some rules, design rules. House Beautiful recently published “10 Decorating Rules to Break” and we wanted to share our favorites with you.

Broken Rule Number One: Dining chairs should all match.

I love the look of this dining area. The mixed use of seating in this Southampton home adds a little character to the room.

Broken Rule Number Two: Place the coffee table in front of your sofa.

I am in agreement with designer Vicente Wolf on this one. I love using an ottoman in place of a coffee table.

Broken Rule Number Three: Cover your bare floors with rugs.

Let your floors show some skin. Keep your beautiful stone and wood floors bare by removing the rugs.

For more ways on how to break the rules visit Housebeautiful.com. What design rules do you like to break?

Designing for Small Spaces

Designers often rely on the basic fundamentals of designing when met with the challenges of decorating a home with limited space. Organization is key and so is maximizing the space allotted. Other useful tips for designing small spaces are as follows:

1. Use Mirrors to create depth.

The above kitchen used a  mirrored backsplash to create an illusion of space.

2. Make the most of the vertical space.

Bookcases and shelves are great ways to make use of underutilized wall space.

3. Custom Built-Ins

Customizing pieces that work with your space will help to eliminate waste. Take, for example, this built-in dresser, not only is it functional, but its also serves as a conversation piece.

College Bound

The time has come for most parents to send their children off to college. It’s a big step in both the child’s and parents’ lives, but we hope to make it a little easier with some helpful tips.

First things first, your child should have already had contact with their college roommate, the first conversation should take place before the big move in day. It is during this time the roommates can discuss what big items they are bringing. Who is buying the microwave, television or the refrigerator? Most dorm rooms are only 12 by 20 feet and have very limited space.

It is also important to be familiar with what is already supplied in the dorm rooms and what things are banned. It is always good to come prepared, but remember to edit. Whatever goes into the dorm room must come back down, so try and keep things simple.

When packing for your college student, make sure you bring a good mix of clothes. Will your daughter or son be pledging a sorority or fraternity? If so they will need appropriate clothes for rush and formals.

Click here for an intensive checklist for your college bound student. And Good Luck!

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