Blog by Michele Buchamer

BIG IDEAS for small spaces

March 28th, 2010
Small interiors can be challenging to decorate. It's important to find ways to maximize on important issues such as color palette, furniture layout, storage, lighting and accessorizing. Here are some ideas to maximize your small space.

* Color - Ensure the theme of your space is reflected throughout your entire interior. Continuity allows a space to feel
bigger: too many different sty ...

Spring Ahead With Color

March 25th, 2010
Home decor should be forward-thinking, comfortable, personal and above all - fashionable - just like our clothing!
The big news for Spring 2010 - starting right now...color is back!
However the trick to making your home positively vibrant is to remember that as bold as you may want to go, you need to do it subtly. There's no doubt that color is the best antidote to all the wintery gray skies ...

"Feature Home" Highlighted

March 16th, 2010
I'm pleased to announce the recent completion of a renovation to a luxury home located in Palm Springs.
This special home is a comfortable get away for family and friends and features many ammenities for ones enjoyment including a custom "Ferrari Showroom". The photos are highlighted under "Feature Home" on my site.

Working With A Interior Designer

October 8th, 2009

Using an interior designer can be a good investment; not only can these professionals save you time, but they can save you money too. They know precisely where to go to find the right furnishings and can offer advise on where you can save and where you should splurge. They can often find creative new ways to incorporate pieces you already have. The right designer for you is someone with whom ...

What Size Should My Area Rug Be?

October 6th, 2009

Rugs add comfort, and visual interest to the space as well as help unify its furnishings.
But before you buy beware, this is the one area of decorating where size and placement matters. Below are some guidelines:

  • Standard Living/Family Room - it should be proportional to a room's floor space.
    Ideally, it should leave an equal amount of floor bare all around it. This applies
    regard ...

“Cheap and Cheerful” Updates for the Bathroom

September 30th, 2009

How can I give my bathroom an update without breaking the piggy bank?

Here are a few tips that will add style and detail with very little cash output and just a bit of work.

  • Frame your existing mirror - to give it definition and updated style in 2 ½ " wide wood or MDF (Medium density fiber board), stained or painted and attach it right to the mirror to the wall around it.
  • Dress ...

Elements of Style

September 25th, 2009

Whether your design style is formal, casual, spare, or a funky mix, take a thoughtful look at the design elements and furniture arrangement in your space. Is your room in sync with your style? If not, use these tips to do a little redecorating.

  • Using Fabrics Creatively:

    Fabric weaves, finishes, and patterns express varying degrees of formality.
    Eclectic - linen is a good choice f ...

Selecting “Your” Style

September 16th, 2009

What if you're not sure of what "your" style is, don't despair and certainly don't feel alone. With the wealth of home furnishings available today, it can be very confusing indeed. Here's a simple exercise to try. Thumb through decorating magazines, looking for rooms that inspire you or speak to your senses. Though the space may not be anything like your room, there will be elements that tran ...

“Picture Perfect” Styling Secrets

September 10th, 2009

Creating eye-catching displays of artwork or photos throughout your home.

Create Unity - Color and theme unit a display, but subtle differences add interest.
(ie. all of the pictures are black & white, all frames are the same
color, not necessarily the same size, all are family photos or
similar theme).

Focal Point - Give the arrangement a focal point. One larger or a set of larger
pictures ...

Renovation: Starting with the big Picture

September 7th, 2009

Whether planning a major decorating project or just freshening up a bit, the first step in any successful redo is a little self-introspection. The needs of a family, for example, are completely different from those of empty nesters. So start by asking yourself a few questions.

  • Who will use this room?
  • Is it a space that's utilized on a daily basis or one that sees only occasional use? ...