Textcopyrightcopy2016JessicaProbusIllustrationscopyrightcopy2016AliceMongkonglliteDesignandconceptcopyrightcopy2016UlyssesPressanditslicensorsAllrightsreservedAnyunauthorizedduplicationinwholeorinpartordisseminationofthiseditionbyanymeans(includingbutnotlimitedtophotocopyingelectronicdevicesdigitalversionsandtheInternet)willbeprosecutedtothefullestextentofthelaw

PublishedintheUSby

ULYSSESPRESSPOBox3440BerkeleyCA94703wwwulyssespresscom

ISBN978-1-61243-580-0LibraryofCongresssConrolNumber2015952123

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

AcquisitionseditorCasieVogelManagingeditorClaireChunCopyeditorReneeRutledgeCoverdesignAliceMongkonglliteInteriordesignJakeFlaherty

DistributedbyPublishersGroupWest

TomymomanddadwhoknewhowtomakeeveryspaceintoahomeandtoCarolinewhogavemywildheartaplacetonest

mdashJP

TomymomRayMichaelandLokimdashAM

ContentsINTRODUCTION

LivingRoomSofaStylesSofaGlossaryUpholsteredChairStylesCoffeeTableStylesCoffeeTableHeightampWidthSideTableStylesSideTableHeight

DININGROOMDiningTableStylesDiningTableSizeRoundDiningTableSizeRectangularDiningChairStylesKindsofStoolsStoolHeight

BEDROOMBedStylesHeadboardStylesNightstandStylesNightstandHeightBedPillowArrangementsBedSizes

TILEampRUGS

TilePatternsLivingRoomRugSizeDiningRoomRugSizeBedroomRugSizeRugGlossary

WINDOWSampDOORSTypesofDoorsHowtoPaintaDoorBasicWindowStylesLeadedWindowStylesTypesofBlindsTypesofShadesMountingOptionsTypesofCurtains

ARTampWALLSPaintFinishesMoldingMapTypesofMoldingGalleryWalls101GalleryWallLayoutsArtHeight

LIGHTTypesofLightingKindsofLampshadesTableLampStylesFloorLampStylesHangingLightHeightPlacesYouNeedLight

BathroomLightTricksPartsofaLamp

HARDWAREampCABINETRYCabinetKnobsDoorknobsLightbulbsBeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumensScrewsScrewHeadsNails

DESIGNampDECORTRICKSHowtoMakeAFloorPlanFlowofaHouseFocalPointsLayersofLightProportionandScaleCurtainHeightBestIndoorPlantsFurnitureRedoFabricYardageChairsFabricYardageSofasFabricYardageBeds

RESOURCEGUIDE

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUTTHECONTRIBUTORS

INTRODUCTION

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

ContentsINTRODUCTION

LivingRoomSofaStylesSofaGlossaryUpholsteredChairStylesCoffeeTableStylesCoffeeTableHeightampWidthSideTableStylesSideTableHeight

DININGROOMDiningTableStylesDiningTableSizeRoundDiningTableSizeRectangularDiningChairStylesKindsofStoolsStoolHeight

BEDROOMBedStylesHeadboardStylesNightstandStylesNightstandHeightBedPillowArrangementsBedSizes

TILEampRUGS

TilePatternsLivingRoomRugSizeDiningRoomRugSizeBedroomRugSizeRugGlossary

WINDOWSampDOORSTypesofDoorsHowtoPaintaDoorBasicWindowStylesLeadedWindowStylesTypesofBlindsTypesofShadesMountingOptionsTypesofCurtains

ARTampWALLSPaintFinishesMoldingMapTypesofMoldingGalleryWalls101GalleryWallLayoutsArtHeight

LIGHTTypesofLightingKindsofLampshadesTableLampStylesFloorLampStylesHangingLightHeightPlacesYouNeedLight

BathroomLightTricksPartsofaLamp

HARDWAREampCABINETRYCabinetKnobsDoorknobsLightbulbsBeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumensScrewsScrewHeadsNails

DESIGNampDECORTRICKSHowtoMakeAFloorPlanFlowofaHouseFocalPointsLayersofLightProportionandScaleCurtainHeightBestIndoorPlantsFurnitureRedoFabricYardageChairsFabricYardageSofasFabricYardageBeds

RESOURCEGUIDE

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUTTHECONTRIBUTORS

INTRODUCTION

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

TilePatternsLivingRoomRugSizeDiningRoomRugSizeBedroomRugSizeRugGlossary

WINDOWSampDOORSTypesofDoorsHowtoPaintaDoorBasicWindowStylesLeadedWindowStylesTypesofBlindsTypesofShadesMountingOptionsTypesofCurtains

ARTampWALLSPaintFinishesMoldingMapTypesofMoldingGalleryWalls101GalleryWallLayoutsArtHeight

LIGHTTypesofLightingKindsofLampshadesTableLampStylesFloorLampStylesHangingLightHeightPlacesYouNeedLight

BathroomLightTricksPartsofaLamp

HARDWAREampCABINETRYCabinetKnobsDoorknobsLightbulbsBeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumensScrewsScrewHeadsNails

DESIGNampDECORTRICKSHowtoMakeAFloorPlanFlowofaHouseFocalPointsLayersofLightProportionandScaleCurtainHeightBestIndoorPlantsFurnitureRedoFabricYardageChairsFabricYardageSofasFabricYardageBeds

RESOURCEGUIDE

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUTTHECONTRIBUTORS

INTRODUCTION

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

BathroomLightTricksPartsofaLamp

HARDWAREampCABINETRYCabinetKnobsDoorknobsLightbulbsBeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumensScrewsScrewHeadsNails

DESIGNampDECORTRICKSHowtoMakeAFloorPlanFlowofaHouseFocalPointsLayersofLightProportionandScaleCurtainHeightBestIndoorPlantsFurnitureRedoFabricYardageChairsFabricYardageSofasFabricYardageBeds

RESOURCEGUIDE

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUTTHECONTRIBUTORS

INTRODUCTION

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

INTRODUCTION

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

ThepathtoonersquosdreamhomeisoftenlitteredwithobstaclesandcomplicationsmdashmoneylocationtimingfurnishingsandeverythinginbetweenThisbookismeant to simplify all of that These cheat sheets are here to provideuncomplicatedwaystomakeanywhereyouresideamorefunctionalwarmandopen space where the furnishings and decor arenrsquot the main attraction butinsteadaretheseamlessbackdropforthekindoflifeyouwanttolivethere

Whether yoursquore still looking for your first apartment or moving into yourseventeenth home the tips in this bookwill help youmake small adjustmentsthat can have a big impact from raising the curtains to make a ceiling lookhigher tomoving a table to allow for betterwalking spaceAndwhether youhaveyourheartsetonanikatcabrioleoryoucanrsquottellthedifferencebetweenachaiseloungeandachesterfieldthesevisualguideswillmakeeachofthesetipseasytounderstand

Justlikethecompletionofanyhomethecheatsheetsinthisbookaremeanttobeusedasaprocessnottobetackledinonedayorevenoneyearbutconsultedasneededovertimetomakethekindofslowpurposefulimprovementsthatturnafewwallsandsomewell-hungcurtainsintoanactualhomeAndwhilemanyof these ldquorulesrdquo are designed to make your space more comfortable andfunctional themost important reason to learn any rules is to knowwhen andhowtobreakthem

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

HowtoUseThisBook

FurniturestylescanbedividedintothreemaincategoriesmoderntransitionalandclassicWhilemosthomeshaveaneclecticmixofallthesestylesifyoursquorenotsurewhatyoulikeherersquosabasicexplanationofhowthesetermsareusedinthis bookModern refers to a more streamlined look with clean lines andminimalist shapes Modern furniture is often done in lighter woods oralternativematerialslikemetallicsormoldedplastics

Transitional style furniture is often amix of wood and upholstery with softlinesandsimplesilhouettesthatcanworkinlotsofdifferenthomesTransitionalfurniture ismore relaxedwithmorecushioningand lessdefined features thanmodernorclassicstyles

Classic refers to an older and more traditional look of furniture likereproductionantiquesClassicfurnitureisoftenmadewithdarkwoodscurvedlines and heavy fabrics like brocades and velvets and is usually lesscomfortablethantransitionalormodernstyles

Some of these cheat sheets can be used simply to improve your designvocabulary which will give you a leg up when talking to salespeople orsearchingonline foryour ideal look searching for a ldquotightbackLawsonrdquowillget youmuch better results than just searching ldquosofardquo For thosewho alreadyhaveagoodideaoftheirhomestyleothersectionswillgiveyousometrickstotakeeach roomrsquosdesign to thenext levelandadd the finishing touches toanyspacethatstillneedsalittleworkFinallyifyougetthroughthisbookandmakealltheimprovementsyouneedtheResourceGuideattheendofthebookwillgiveyoutonsmoreplacestocontinueyourhomedesigneducation

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

LIVINGROOM

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

SofaStyles

Choosingasofaisabigdecisionnotonlybecauseofthecostbutalsobecausethey set the tone for the style of the roomWhile all furniture designers andmanufacturershavetheirownuniquenamesfortheirsofamodelstheseare10ofthemostcommonsilhouettesandnamesforsofastylesrangingfromamoretraditionalOldWorldlooktoasleekmodernshape

MODERN

Mid-Century

Daybed

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Chaise

TRANSITIONAL

EnglishRollArm

Tuxedo

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Camelback

Lawson

CLASSIC

Cabriole

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Chesterfield

Settee

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

SofaGlossary

BenchSeatAsinglecushionthatgoestheentirelengthofthesofa

CamelbackAcommontypesofawhichhasabackthatrsquoshighestinthemiddleshapedlikeacamelrsquoshump

DeckThebottomstructureof the sofawhere the seat cushions rest In loose-cushion models the deck is usually upholstered in a neutral-colored fabricinsteadoftheupholsterymaterial

Left-ArmorRight-ArmUsedtodescribewhichsideachaiseislocatedonasectionalwhenyouarefacingthesofa

Loose Cushion A sofa which has cushions that are not attached to the sofabaseThese tend tobeverycomfortableandeasier tocleanSomemodelscanhaveapillowbackwithtightseatcushionssomehavea tightbackwithlooseseatcushions

PillowBackAnothertermforloose-cushionmodelswherethecushionsarenotattachedtothedeck

RolledArmAsofastylewitharmsthatcurveoutwardusuallycushionedThisisaclassicandtraditionalsofastyle

SectionalA sofa that comes inmultiple parts that can often be rearranged tomakeanewshapeThemostcommonistheL-shapedsectional

SkirtA section of fabric that extends from the deck of the sofa to the floorusuallycoveringthelegs

SleeperAnysofathatcanbeadjustedtobecomeabedwhetheritrsquosapull-outmodelorafutonstylethatleansback

SquareArmAsofastylewitharmsthatareboxyandusuallycushionedThese

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

modelsaremorestreamlinedandmodern

TightBackAsofawithnoremovablecushionsThisminimalistlooktendstobelesscomfortablethanloose-cushionmodelsInsteadofafilledcushiontheseusuallyhaveaspringbase

TuftedAnupholsterystylethatusesknotsorbuttonstosecuresectionsofthefabrictothebaseresultinginldquotuftsrdquooffabricTuftedsofashaveaclassicandexpensivelookbutareoftenlesscomfortablethanothermodels

Welt A decorative cord used as an accent along the lines of an upholsteredpiecesometimesusedinacontrastingcolorfromtheupholstery

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

UpholsteredChairStyles

Upholsteredaccentchairsareagreatwaytoaddextraseatingtoaspaceandmixdifferent design styles in one roomA bigger investment armchairs aremorecomfortable than occasional chairs which are smaller and more portablemeetingwhateverseatingneedsariseonanyoccasion

PROTIPIfyoursofaandchairsaredramaticallydifferentinstyleusethrowpillowsinmatchingcolorsorcoordinatingpatternstotiethespacetogether

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Tub

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Wingback

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

ModernWingback

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Lawson

Bergegravere

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Club

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Slipper

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

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Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

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Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Occasional

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

CoffeeTableStyles

Coffee tables canmake a seating area feel complete and functionalThe idealstyleandsizedependsonthesizeandstyleofyoursofaandotherseatingintheroomRectangulartablesarethemostcommonandworkwellwithlongsofasSquareorroundtablesareidealforsmallerseatingarrangements

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Cottage

Mid-Century

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Modern

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Shaker

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Parsons

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Industrial

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

CoffeeTableHeightampWidth

ThebestsizeforyourcoffeetabledependsonthesizeofyoursofaForoptimalbalanceandfunctionthecoffeetableshouldbearoundtwothirdsthewidthofthesofaandtheheightshouldbe2to4inchesbelowtheheightofthesofaseatTogiveampleroomformovingaroundmakesuretherearearound18inchesofspacebetweenthesofaandthetable

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

SideTableStyles

TofigureoutiforwhereyouneedasidetablethinkofitthiswaythereshouldbesomewhereforsomeoneineveryseatingpositionintheroomtoeasilyplaceadrinkInadditiontohavingthisfunctionalusesidetablesareagreatplacetoputextralightingortointroduceadifferentcolorortextureintoaroom

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Tulip

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

French

Mid-Century

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Modern

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

ArtDeco

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Regency

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

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Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

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Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Industrial

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

SideTableHeight

Theidealheightofasidetabledependsontheheightofthearmofthefurniturethatrsquosnexttoiteachtableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightofthesofaorchairarmForarmlessfurniturethetableshouldbewithin2inchesoftheheightoftheseat

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

DININGROOM

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

DiningTableStyles

While the style of your dining table is important the most crucial thing toconsider is the size To allow for chairs to comfortablymove in and out youneed at least 42 to 48 inches between the edge of your table and thewalls ornearestpieceoffurniturePedestaltablescanusuallyfitmorepeoplethantrestleorfarmhouse-styletablesbecausethereismorelegroomunderneath

MODERN

Pedestal

Farmhouse

TRANSITIONAL

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Trestle

Trestle

CLASSIC

Pedestal

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Farmhouse

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

DiningTableSizeRound

RounddiningtablesaregreatforsmallersquarespacesandcanusuallyfitmorepeoplebecausetherearenocornersTheymakeforacozierandmoreintimateeating experience since everyone is the same distance apart This guidelineshows themostcomfortablenumberofchairs toputaroundeachsize table Ifyourchairsarelargerorhavearmsfewerpeoplewillfit

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

DiningTableSizeRectangular

Rectangular tables are ideal for longer rooms larger groups or dining spaceswith foot traffic going through them At a rectangular or square table eachpersonshouldhave2feetofeatingspacethoughmorechairscanbeaddedforbigoccasionsRectangulartablesarealsogreatforbenchseatingwhichcanbetuckedunderthetablewhennotinusemakingthespacelesscrowded

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

DiningChairStyles

The right dining chairs can totally change the look of a table And if yoursquorefeelingbravemixingandmatchingasetofdiningchairsisagreatwaytoaddcharacter to an older dining tablewithout having to buy awhole new set Tomakeagroupofmismatchedchairsfeelunifiedpaintthemallthesamecolororusematchingupholsteryforthecushions

MODERN

IndustrialCafe

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively

Mid-CenturyModern

ModernBentwood

TRANSITIONAL

VintageFrench

Windsor

Parsons

Parsons

CLASSIC

CrossBack

FrenchBistro

TraditionalBentwood

KindsofStools

ThekindofstoolyouchooseshoulddependonthestyleofyourroomandhowoftenyouplantouseitBacklessstoolstakeuplessvisualspacebutaremuchless comfortable for everyday use Upholstered or high-back stools are oftenmore expensive and take up more space but are much more comfortable asactualdiningchairsWhileclassicstoolstendtobehigh-backedandmodernorindustriallowandun-cushionedthereareawiderangeofstoolshapesineverystyle

Saddle

Retro

Industrial

Drafting

Mid-Century

Fabric

StoolHeight

Theonlydifferencebetweenbar stoolsandcounter stools isheightbar stoolsare typically30 to32 incheshighandcounterstoolsare24 to26 incheshighSomestoresandmanufacturersusethesetermsinterchangeablyNomatterwhatyoucallitthekeyelementtochoosingyourstoolheightisthisthereshouldbe8to10inchesofspaceinbetweenthebottomofyourbarortableandthetopofyourbarseat

BEDROOM

BedStyles

Choosingabed frame isabigdecision similar tochoosingasofabecauseoftheinvestmentandthewayitchangesthewholelookandfeelofaroomCertainbed styles also serve different functions storage beds or beds with room forstorageunderneatharegreat forsmallapartmentsorspacesTrundlebedsandday beds can function as extra seating or sleeping spaces Canopy and posterbedsmakeabigvisualstatementandalsodivideupalargerspaceAllofthesebedstylesareoftenavailableineachdifferentbedsize

MODERN

Divan

Platform

Trundle

TRANSITIONAL

Poster

Panel

Panel

Upholstered

CLASSIC

Canopy

Day

Sleigh

HeadboardStyles

Headboards come in many different shapes and sizes and most of them aregiven different names from each designer ormanufacturer These terms are agenericwaytodescribethesilhouettethatspeakstoyouwhetheryoursquoreinthemarketorwant toDIYAmoreroundedheadboardgives the roomasoftnesswhilesquareorsteppedonescanaddamasculinevibe

Arch

Basic

Bevel

Camel

Peak

Round

SquareBevel

Step

Wing

NightstandStyles

NightstandswereoriginallycalledldquocommodesrdquowhichcomesfromtheFrenchword for ldquoconvenientrdquo because the cabinet concealed a bedside chamber potTodaymanynightstandsstillhavestoragespaceindrawersordoorsInadditiontohavingstoragenightstandsarealsoagreatwayto introduceanewcolorortextureintoyourbedroom

Bombe

Mid-century

Campaign

Shaker

Cottage

Transitional

NightstandHeight

TheidealheightforanightstanddependsontheheightofthebedThestandardheight range for both nightstands and beds is 24 to 28 inches high butmanyolder canopy beds or modern platform beds can be significantly different Agoodruleofthumbisforthenightstandtobeeitherthesameheightasthebedoracoupleincheshigher

BedPillowArrangements

Thenumberandstyleofdecorativeandfunctionalbedpillowsyoushouldhavedependsontwofactorsthestyleofyourroomandhowhardyouwantittobetomake the bedThese are just a fewways to combine the pillows you actuallysleeponwithoneormoredecorativepillows tomakeyourbed feel completeand pulled together The three kinds of pillows shown here are simple(functional sleeping pillows) standard (larger square pillows usually withdecorative removable shams) and decorative (smaller square or rectangularpillowssometimeswithremovablecovers)

TWIN

Simple

Standard

DecorativeFULLampQUEEN

Simple

Standard

Decorative

KING

Simple

Standard

Decorative

BedSizes

Twin39times75

TwinXL39times80

Full54times75

FullXL54times80

Queen60times80

King76times80

CaliforniaKing72times84

TILEampRUGS

TilePatterns

Tile patterns and shapes can change the look and scale of a roomcompletelySimplelayoutslikethestackbondorcheckerboardworkinanyspaceandcanbeusedtodirectthelineofsighttowardafocalpointintheroomHerringboneorbasketweavepatternscanbeusedatanangle tomakeasmall spaceappearlargerOffset or subwaypatterns canbeused tohide imperfectionsor unevenroomsizes

Basketweave

Stitch

Herringbone

DoubleHerringbone

Knit

Stagger

FlemishBond

Offset

Subway

Brickwork

StackBond

Checkerboard

LivingRoomRugSize

When choosing a rug for your living room consider the size of your seatingareaThekeyelementsherearefurniturelegsThelegsofeachseatingelement(sofachairs)shouldbeeitherallontherugallofftherugorwiththefrontlegsofeachontherugandthebacklegsoffThiswillmakethespacefeelcohesiveand tied together If you can afford it the best looking rug is big enough toextend1footpastthebacklegsofeachseatingelement

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

DiningRoomRugSize

ForthediningroomitrsquoskeytochoosearugthatallthechairandtablelegswillfitonevenwhenthechairsarepulledoutArugthatrsquos3to4feetwiderthanthetable is ideal tomake the roomfeel spaciousbut ifyouneed toget a smallerrug a shape that contrasts with the table shape (ie an oval rug with arectangular table or a rectangular rugwith an oval table)will provide enoughvisualcontrasttomakeitlookinteresting

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BedroomRugSize

AgoodrugcanmakethebedroomfeelinfinitelymorecozyThebestsizeandlocationfortherugiswhateverplacesitdirectlyunderyourfeetwhenyougetoutofbedThiscanbeachievedwithasmallrugrightnexttothebedoraruglargeenoughfor theentirebedandnightstandtoreston itLargerugscangetveryexpensivebuttheidealrugsizeforabedroomisonethatextendsatleast1footpasteachnightstandand2feetpasttheendofthebedoranyfurnitureatthebottomofthebed

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

RugGlossary

AcrylicSynthetic fiberused tocreateawool-like rugCheaperbutmuch lessdurablethanactualwool

All-OverDesign A rugwithout amedallion design in the center butwith apattenthatcoverstheentirerugUsuallymorecontemporary

CarvedPileAhighpilerugwithapatternordesigncutintoitSeenofteninChinesecarpetdesigns

Cotton Rugs made with cotton are soft fairly durable and usually machinewashable

Dhurrie A thick flatweave cotton rug that originated in India Durable andavailableinavarietyofstylesandpatterns

FlatweaveMadewithaloominsteadofknottingortuftingtheserugshavenopileandarebothdurableandreversible

Hand Knotted Made with a labor-intensive process that involves individualstrandsofyarnbeingknottedaroundwarp threads that run theentire lengthoftherugHigh-qualityrugsmadethiswaytendtobemoreexpensive

HookedAtuftedrugwherethepileisloopedinsteadofcut

JuteNaturalfiberusedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

KilimAflatweaverugthatisoftenreversible

Medallion The center design element that is often symmetrical in traditionalorientalrugs

Overdyed Primarily antique wool rugsmade through a process of bleaching

andthenoversaturatingtherugwithabrightcolorOftenyoucanstillseehintsoftheoriginalpattern

PileThetermusedtorefertothedensityandlengthoftherugrsquosfibersHigherpilerugsaresofterlowerpilerugsaremoredurable

SilkOftenusedincombinationwithwooltogivearugaparticularsheen

SisalNaturalfibersimilartojuteUsedtomakerugsthatarelesssoftthanwoolorcottonbutverydurable

Tufted Rug-making process that involves pulling loops of yarn through abackingmaterialCanbemadebyhandorwithamachine

Viscose Syntheticmaterial used tomake imitation silk rugsOften sheds andwhileinexpensivedoesnotlast

Wool Versatile material for making higher-end rugs that are both soft andextremely durableWool is easily dyed and can bemade into many types ofrugsfromflatweavetohighpile

WINDOWSampDOORS

TypesofDoors

The shape and style of interior doorswill depend on the function and size ofeachroombi-foldandpocketdoorsarecommononnarrowinteriorspaceslikehallwaysandclosetswhileflushandFrenchdoorsareusedforpassagebetweenlargerareasTheshapeandstyleofexteriordoorsaremoredecorativeorsafety-relateddoorswithmoreglass(orlite)areusuallylesssafebutalsoletinmorelight

INTERIORDOORS

Flush

Bi-Fold

Pocket

French

EXTERIORDOORS

SixPaneled

FourPaneled

QuarterLite

HalfLite

FullLite

HowtoPaintaDoor

Paneled doors are some of the most commonly used types for interior andexteriorpurposesbecausetheyhavegreatdepthanddetail

Theverticalpanelsofadoor(124)arecalledstilesThehorizontalpanels(3)arecalledrailsThebasicruleofthumbforpaintinglikeaproistopaintfromthecenterout

1Firstpaintthedoorpanelsandinteriormolding

2Thenpaintthemiddlestileallthewaydown

3Paintalltherailsacrossthedoor

4Finishwiththeoutsideborderoftheentiredoor

PROTIPPaintwiththegrainevenifitrsquosafakewoodgrainItwillkeepthebrushstrokesconsistentandnaturalMakesurethedooristotallycleanPaintmagnifiesimperfectionsandwillpeelfasterwhenappliedtoadoorthathasanydebrisItrsquosaloteasiertoavoiddripswhenyoutakethedoorallthewayoffitshingesandlayitoutflatIttakesalittleextratimetodoalltheworkbutitlooksmuchbetterintheend

BasicWindowStyles

MosthomeshavemultiplekindsofwindowsthroughoutdependingontheroomlocationandfunctionWindowtypesaredefinedbywherethehingesarelocated(if any) and how they open Single and double hung windows have a moretraditionallookandareusuallycheaperthancasementwindowsthatopenfromthesideDoublehungwindowsprovideanaturalconvectionwhenboththetopand bottom sashes are open Casement windows provide superior ventilationwhenopenandinsulationandnoisereductionwhenclosedPictureorstationarywindows do not open so they provide better insulation and natural light thanotherstyles

SingleHung

DoubleHung

Sliding

Casement

French

Awning

Picture

LeadedWindowStyles

LeadlightorcameglassisasimpletypeofglassworkthatinvolvesmakingsmallpiecesofglassintoalargerdecorativewindowThesewerecommononhomesandcottagesdating from theearly twentieth century andcan still be found inmanyhomesfromtheeraandinthriftstoresasstandalonedecorativepieces

Georgian

Diamond

QueenAnne

BoxedDiamond

Tudor

Gothic

Regent

Mosaic

TypesofBlinds

BlindsareanexcellentwaytoaddprivacytoaroomwithouttheclutteredlookthatcurtainsoftengiveThe typeyouchoose is largelyamatterofpreferencethougha thickerverticalblindcanmakea roomfeelsmallerormorecrowdedwhenusedonmultiplewindows

Matchstick

MiniVenetian

Venetian

Vertical

TypesofShades

Like blinds the type of shade you choose is an aesthetic choicemore than afunctionaloneRollerandRomanshadesareusuallymoremodernthantie-upsbutadifferentfabricchoicecanmakeanyofthesetypesworkinmultiplestyles

Roman

Tie-Up

Roller

MountingOptions

The way you mount your blinds will depend on the shape and size of yourwindowandhowmuchdarknessyouwantinthespaceWhiletherersquosnorightorwrong way to mount and there are benefits to both an interior and exteriormountsomewindowsmightonlyworkwithonemountingstyle

INTERIORMOUNTProsForwindowswithdecorativetrimmountingyourblindsontheinteriorofthewindowisagreatwaytoshowthatoffaslongasyourwindowsaredeep-setenoughtoholdthemThiscanalsomakethespacefeelbiggersincetheshadeswonrsquottakeupanyextradepth

ConsThisisnrsquotidealifyouwanttotaldarknesssincetherewilllikelybeagapbetweentheshadeandtheframeAndforshorterwindowstheblindswillobscuresomeoftheviewwhentheyrsquoreupsincetheybunchatthetopoftheframe

EXTERIORMOUNT

ProsMountingyourblindsoutsideandaboveyourwindowcanmakethewindowitselfappearbiggerandalsoallowallthelightfromthewindowinsidetheroomIfyoudonrsquothavedecorativewindowframesthismountingstylecanaddalittleextrastyletothespace

ConsThisstyletakesupmoreroomonyourwallandcanmakethespacefeelalittlesmallerespeciallyiftheblindsthemselvesaredark

TypesofCurtains

Choose your curtain hanging according to your style preferencemdashtab andgrommet curtains tend to be a little more modern while pocket and pleatcurtainsaremoretraditional

Tab

Pocket

Grommet

Pleat

ARTampWALLS

PaintFinishes

MoldingMap

1Crown

2Cove

3Chairrail

4Basecap

5Baseboard

6Baseshoe

7Casing

8Cornerguard

TypesofMolding

Baseboard

BaseCap

BaseShoe

Casing

ChairRail

CornerGuard

Cove

Crown

GalleryWalls101

Theeasiestwaytostartagallerywallistoplacearteithersurroundingamidline(DiagramA)orinsideacontainedspace(DiagramB)

Thewidthofthegallerywallshouldbeatleasttwo-thirdsthesizeofwhateverfurnitureorfocalpointitgoesabove

Foraneclecticlookvarythecolorsandthesizeandshapeoftheframesandartpieces

Toaddcohesionatleasthalfthepiecesorframesshouldhaveasimilarcolororcolorscheme

DIAGRAMA

DIAGRAMB

PROTIPTryusingpainterrsquostapetomapoutthesizeofthemidlineorspaceasyouhangtokeepiteven

GalleryWallLayouts

ArtHeight

The idealheight forart inanyspacedependsmoreon thesizeof theart itselfthanthesizeofthewallthecenterofthepieceshouldbearound58inchesfromthefloor

ThereareexceptionsofcourseIftherersquosapieceoffurniturebelowlikeasofaorbedtheartshouldstartaround6to8inchesabovethetopoftheitemAndifthewalls in your house are super tall the art can go a little higher to fill thespace

LIGHT

TypesofLighting

Choosing what style of light you want is a matter of taste but the type oflightingoptionyouneedforaparticularspaceisamatteroffunctionLightingthat is mounted to the ceiling such as chandeliers pendant lights and flushmounts provides ambient lighting for a large space Sconces and other smallfocusedlightsourcesprovidedecorativelightingTablefloorandtasklightsaregearedtowardaspecificspaceandfunctionsuchasreadingMostroomsneedacombinationofmultiplelightingsourcesindifferentareas

Chandelier

Sconce

FlushMount

PendantLight

FloorLamp

TableLamp

TaskLight

KindsofLampshades

Use three important sizes to measure your lampshade the top diameter thebottomdiameterandtheheightThestyleandsizeofyourideallampshadewilldependonthestyleandsizeofthelampbasethewattageofthebulbandwherethelampisgoingThehigherthewattagethefartherthebulbneedstobefromtheshadeMostnewshadesincludemaximumwattagerecommendations

MODERN

Cylinder

Drum

Rectangle

TRANSITIONAL

Empire

TaperedDrum

TaperedSquare

CLASSIC

CLASSIC

Bell

EnglishPleat

Pagoda

Scalloped

TableLampStyles

The idealheight for table lampshades is two-thirds theheightof thebaseForlamps with a solid thick base the width of the lampshade should be aroundtwice the width of the base Lamps that will sit on small or low tables ornightstandsshouldhavenarrowershadestoavoidbeingbumpedThesimpleralamprsquosbasedesignisthemoretypesofshadeswillworkonitRoundorwidelampsoftenlookbetterwithmoreclassicshadestylesandsquaredorthinlampslookbetterwithmodernorsquareshades

Candlestick

Modern

Desk

Tiffany

Mid-Century

Urn

FloorLampStyles

There isnrsquot an ideal size for floor lampshade sizebutagood ruleof thumb isthattheswitchshouldnotbevisibleNearaseatingareathebottomoftheshadeshouldbeatleast1foothigherthanthetopofthenearestpieceoffurniture

Arc

Torchiere

Club

Tower

Pharmacy

Tree

HangingLightHeight

PendantorchandeliersabovefurnitureshouldbelowenoughtocastlightonthesurfacebelowthemTheycanbehunglowerthanotherlightssincenoonewillbewalking beneath them For dining room lighting the bottom of the fixtureshouldbe30to34inchesabovethetableAboveakitchenislandthebottomofthelightshouldbe30inchesabovethehighestpartofthecountertopLightingthatishungaboveacoffeetablecanbefairlylow5to7feetabovethegroundaslongasthefixtureissmallerthantheareaofthetableitrsquosaboveForlargerfixturesitshouldbehighenoughthatthetallestpersoninyourhouseholdclearsthelight

TABLE

KITCHENISLAND

LIVINGROOM

PlacesYouNeedLight

Asidefromtheobviousareaslotsoflittlespacesinyourhomethatyoumightnot think about could use extra lighting To figure out where you need extralightingturnonall thelightsinyourhomeandlookforplacesthatarestill inshadowor complete darkness like closets underneath cabinets and along thestairs Standing or decorative mirrors are often poorly lit and extra lightingbesidethemwillnotonlymakethemmorefunctionalbutwillalsobounceoffthemirrorrsquosexpandinglightintotherestoftheroom

UnderCabinets

AlongtheStairs

NexttotheFrontDoor

IntheCloset

BesidetheMirror

BathroomLightTricks

LightinabathroomisabigdealespeciallyifitrsquosalsotheplaceyougetreadyeverydayTheworstkindisthegenericpendantorflushmountinthebathroomceilingwhichcausesunflatteringshadowsanddistortionAbettersolutionisabarlightormultiplelightsabovethemirrorwhichwillcastlightonallsidesandoffsetsomeoftheshadowsThetrickforthebestmostflatteringlightistoputsconces on either side of the mirror positioning the bottom of the shade orsconceatyoureyeleveloraround65inchesfromthefloor

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

PartsofaLamp

If your lamp feels too short one cost-effective solution is to get a taller harpwhich can usually be found at a hardware or lamp store While the ideallampshade is two-thirds the size of the lamp base a few inches of height cansometimes make a big difference in the amount of light a lamp provides tocertainareasofyourhomeJustmakesure theharp isstillsmallenough tobecompletelyhiddenbytheshade

HARDWAREampCABINETRY

CabinetKnobs

Cabinetknobsaremuchmoreabout styleandpreference than functionWhilemost cabinets are predrilled for a certain type of knob replacing the originaloptionisacost-effectivewaytogivecabinetsanewlookRoundknobsandarchpulls aremore classic and traditionalwhile squareknobs andbar pulls have amore modern feel For simplicity many designers prefer to match cabinethardwaretothesinkfixtures

RoundKnob

ArchPull

SquareKnob

BarPull

CupPull

DropPull

EdgePull

RingPull

LoopPull

RecessedPull

FingerPull

Doorknobs

The twomajor types of door handles grip-and-turn knobs and lever handlesboth have pros and cons Other than aesthetic preference you should chooseyourhandlebasedontheneedsofyourhousehold

TYPESOFHANDLES

LEVERErgonomicforpeoplewithlimitedmobilityEasierforkidsandanimalstoopenCancatchonclothingelbowsstrapsMustbematchedtothedoorswing(whetherthedooropensontheleftsideorrightside)

GRIP-AND-THEN-TURNKNOB

HarderforkidsandanimalstoopenCanworkwithanydoorswing(lefthandvsrighthand)Harderforpeoplewithlimitedmobility(orfullwethands)toopen

TYPESOFLOCKS

PASSAGEThistypeofknobisusedonanyinteriordoorsinahomethatdonotneedtobelockedbutshouldopenfrombothsidessuchasawalk-inclosetorhallwaydoor

PRIVACYThesetypesofknobsareusedanywheresomeonewouldneedprivacy(notsecurity)suchasabathroomandbedroom

DUMMYThisisasingle-sidedknobthatisusedforanydoorthatdoesnrsquotneedtohavealatchedclosureoropenfrombothsidessuchasashallowcloset

KEYEDTheseareusedinanyinteriorareasthatneedtobesecurelylockedsuchasabackdoor

Lightbulbs

TYPESOFBULBS

Incandescent

CFL

LED

BULBSTYLES

Arbitrary

Globe

Spot

Bulged

Candle

Tubular

BeginnerrsquosGuidetoLumens

LumensisaunitofmeasurefortheamountoflightabulbputsoutThenumberof lumens needed for a room or area depends on the size of the space theactivitiesthatareperformedthereandotherfactorslikewallpaintorcoveringwhichcanabsorborreflectlightdependingonthefinishandcolorWattsontheotherhandisactuallytheunitofmeasureforhowmuchelectricityalightbulbrequires to be illuminated Thatrsquos why a certain light fixture will require amaximumwattageofbulbDifferent typesofbulbswith thesamewattagecanactuallyproducethesameamountoflumensorvisiblelight

Screws

CAPSCREWUsedwithboltsandhasnoscrewheadCanbeusedforanextra-tighthold

LAGSCREWUsuallylargeandwithahexheadtheseareusedforheavy-dutymaterials

MACHINESCREWMeanttobeusedwithboltshavingnosharppoint

SELF-TAPPINGSCREW

ThepointontheseisdesignedtodrillitselfthroughthematerialCanbefoundinwoodmetalandothervarieties

WOODSCREWThesehaveataperedshankandareusedinsecuringwood

ScrewHeads

Slotted

PhillipsHead

Hex

Pan

Oval

Round

Flat

Nails

COMMONNAILCanbepurchasedinmanylengthsThisisthemostcommontypeofnailusedinroughconstructionusuallyinwood

BOXNAILThesearesmallerthancommonnailsbuttheyarealsonotasstrong

FINISHINGNAILTheseareusedwhenthenailitselfwillshowinthefinishedproductlikeonmoldingbecausetheheadissmall

CASINGNAILThisissimilartoafinishingnailbutstronger

BRADAtinyversionofthefinishingnailthatrsquosusedinsmallprojectslikeframing

ROOFINGNAILThelargeheadofthesenailsisusedtoholdroofingmaterialontightly

DRYWALLNAIL

Thesenailshaveringsaroundtheshaftdesignedtoholddrywalltogether

DESIGNampDECORTRICKS

HowtoMakeAFloorPlan

Ifyoursquoregettinganyprofessionalorcontractworkdoneyoursquollwanttohaveaprofessional floor plan made of your home But for the DIY decorator andfurnitureshopperabasichand-drawnfloorplancanbeabighelp inchoosingwhattobuyandlayingoutyourspace

While itrsquosnice todrawafloorplan toscale itrsquosnotnecessaryfor thiskindoflayoutAslongasyouhaveaccuratemeasurementsforeachspaceandelementitwill stillwork Ideally you should note eachmeasurement to the nearest⅛inchDonrsquotforgettomeasureoneithersideofeachdoorandaccountforhowwidethedoorswingsopen

PROTIPMakingnoteofwindowsandthelocationofpoweroutletsonyourfloorplanwillhelpyoudeterminewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

determinewheretoputlightingorlargeelectronicssoyoudonrsquothavecordsrunningtoofar

FlowofaHouse

Theflowofahouseisessentiallythewaypeoplewalkormovethroughaspacewalkingthroughahallwaytogettoabedroommovingthroughthelivingroomto reach thekitchenwalking through abedroom to the ensuite bathroometcKnowing how your home flows will help you decide where to place certainpiecesoffurnitureandwheretoputthefocalpointofeachroom(moreonthatnext)Agoodruleofthumbforplanningthespaceflowisthisthinkofhowyouwouldwalkthroughthehousewiththelightsoffmdashanythingthatyoucouldrunintoortripovershouldbemoved

Flowcan also be enhancedbyusingone color or color palette throughout thenatural path of the houseWhether itrsquos accessories in one color or artwork oraccentpaintinanothercoloracohesiveaccentpalettealongtheflowlinescanreallytieaspacetogether

FocalPoints

EachroomorareaofahouseshouldhaveavisualldquofocalpointrdquoSomeroomshave a natural focal point like a fireplace or picture window Others havechosenfocalpointslikeaTVorgallerywallIfyoursquorenotsurewhereitisinaroom think of where your eye naturally goes when you enter the space andworkfromthere

Large spaces or rooms in an open floor plan often havemultiple focal pointslikealargewindowinonespaceandabigsofaorlargepieceofartinanotherThis can serve to break up a room and visually divide the space into specificareas

LayersofLight

HavingatleastthreeldquolayersrdquooflightinanyareawillgivethespacedepthandallowyoutoadjusttheatmospheretoreflectwhatrsquoshappeningthereEachlayerconsistsofadifferentlightsourceorgroupoflightsourcesthatserveasimilarfunctionThethreebasiclayersof lightareambientaccentandtasklightingThesethreelayerscanbeusedtogethertoachievemaximumillumination(likeatnighttimewhentasksarebeingperformed)orusedseparatelytosetthemoodordirectattentiontoaparticulararea

Ambient lighting is themost basic layer Sometimes called overhead lightingambient light illuminates the entire room and is usually bright and somewhatharsh The most common source is recessed or flush-mount chandeliers orceiling fans with lights attached People often stop at this layer withoutconsideringtheotherfunctionsoftheroom

AccentordecorativelightingisusedtohighlightparticularobjectsorelementsinaspaceThiscanbespecificlikeadirectionallightaboveapaintingormorebroad like track lighting above a certain wall This is also used in outdoorlighting design like directional floodlights pointing to certain trees orarchitecturalfeatures

Tasklightingisanyspecificfixtureaimedathelpingyouaccomplishaparticulartask It includes things like desk lamps reading lamps and table and floorlampsTheneedandlocationof thiskindof lightwillchangemorefrequentlythan theother two layersas theuseofeachspaceorarrangementof furniturechanges

Certain fixtures can be used for multiple layers of light for instance achandelieroroverheadlightwithadimmingswitchwouldserveasambientlightatthehighestlevelandaccentlightwhenlowered

ProportionandScale

ProportionandscalerefertothesizeofeachfurnishinginrelationtotheotherAll rooms need largemedium and small items and the style and location ofeachcontributestothebalanceandcompletenessofthespace

Proportionandscalearealsoafactorinthefunctionofthespaceifyouhaveanextra-longsofayouneedasimilarlyproportionedcoffeetablesothateveryonesittingtherehasaplacetoputadrinkThekeyisthatstyleandsizecontributetoscaleifyouhaveasofawithaskirtsothebottomlookssolidyourcoffeetableshould have open legs to balance it out But if your sofa has legswith spacevisiblebelowyourtablecanbealittleheavierItrsquosallaboutbalance

CurtainHeight

Youmightnotbeabletoraiseyourceilingsorwidenyourwindowsbutyoucanuse your curtains to trick the eye into thinking youhaveBasic curtain heightandwidthcoversonly theexactsizeof thewindowAbetterwaytomakethewindowseemevenwideristogetacurtainrodthatrsquosabout1footlongerthantheactualwindowsothatwhentheshadesareopentheydonrsquotcoveranyoftheactualwindowThisallows formaximumlight tocome inandalsomakes thewindowlooklikeitrsquosevenbiggerThebestwaytousecurtainsistohangthemcloser to the ceiling than to the top of thewindow aswell aswider than theframeThisdrawstheeyeupwardmakestheceilingsseemtallerandallowsformaximumlightwhenthecurtainsareopen

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

BestIndoorPlants

PlantsareawonderfulwaytoaddwarmthandcolortoanyspaceThebestkindofplant togetdependson theorientationandsizeof the roomrsquoswindowsandwheretheplantwillgoSouth-facingwindowsprovidethemostlightandnorth-facingwindowsprovide the leastEast andwest-facingwindowsboth providemediumlightthatrsquosshort-livedespeciallyinwintermonthssoplantsshouldbeplacedclosertothewindowsforoptimumhealthIfyouwanttokeepplantsinaroomwithlownolightmovethemintoaroomwithlighteverytwoweeks

LOWLIGHT

PeaceLily

SnakePlant

ChineseEvergreen

Pothos

SpiderPlant

MEDIUMLIGHT

BostonFern

BirdrsquosNestFern

FiddleLeafFig

PrayerPlant

RubberPlant

FurnitureRedo

Ifyoudonrsquotwant to invest innewfurniturebutare tiredofaparticular stylethereare severalways toupdateoldpieces tomake them look freshandnewThetwocheapestandeasiestwaystoredofurniturearetoswapoutthehardwareorthelegsCabinetsandotherdrawerscanbetransformedwithanewstyleofknobSofaandchairlegscanoftenbeeasilyswappedformoremodernorsleekdesigns Painting and reupholstering aremore time-consuming and costly butare a great way to give old or thrifted furniture new life Basic painting andupholsteryprojectscanbeDIYedandevenacustomupholsteryjobcanbelessexpensivethananewpiece

Painting

Reupholstering

SwappingHardware

ChangingLegs

FabricYardageChairs

VintageFrench2yards

Parsons3yards

Tub4yards

Wingback7yards

ModernWingback7yards

Lawson6yards

Bergegravere5yards

Club8yards

Slipper5yards

Occasional3yards

FabricYardageBeds

UPHOLSTEREDHEADBOARD

King3yards

Queen25yards

Full2yards

Twin2yards

ResourceGuide

ApartmentTherapy

apartmenttherapycom

Apartment Therapy is the go-to blog for small-space solutions and inspiringtoursofsmallerhomeswithgreatachievablestyle

BuzzFeedDIY

buzzfeedcomdiy

BuzzFeed DIY is a great resource for easy-to-use tips on renovations decororganizationsmart-livingtipsandproductsforthehome

Decor8decor8blogcom

Decor8wasoneofthefirstdesignblogstotakeofflaunchedbyHollyBeckerin2006Theblogcoversallmannerofhome-relatedtipsfromDIYstostylingtipstorecipes

DesignSponge

designspongecom

Design Sponge is a great place for inspiration on how to live and workcreatively