Rustic interior design ideas from interior designers and architects constantly attempt to employ cutting-edge techniques in order to bring the outdoors in. In 1949, Philip Johnson designed the famous Glass House, an architectural statement that celebrated transparency and reflection. The interior of the home became nuanced with the fluctuation of light and the change of the seasons. It’s a revolutionary rustic interior design idea, sure, but the Canaan, Conn., home lacked privacy and practicality.

Today, architects in coastal areas use floor-to-ceiling glass panels and infinity swimming pools to frame sunsets and seascapes. The same is true in the American Southwest, where wall-to-wall windows create a sort of ever-changing, high-definition Georgia O’ Keefe painting. John Muir was right when he stated, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world” — a favorite inspirational quote from the Academy of Art school for interior design.

For easy and less expensive ways to drive rustic interior design, adorn your home with the following rustic interior design pieces:

A Rustic Interior Design Ideas for Stone Fireplace Design

Whether you have a vintage bear claw and ball footed wood stove or a traditional fireplace, once you fashion the interior of a home with a fire installation, you’ve already decided to go rustic. A fireplace finished with stone adds another outdoor element to the interior of the home. From Old World cobblestone to a fireplace with a lifted foundation, a natural stone fireplace creates warmth, texture and folksy sophistication to the home.

Photo of stone fireplace by Wonderlane via Flickr

Rustic Interior Design Ideas for Birch Tree Bed Design

A back-to-the-land visual aesthetic should not make your home look like a 1970′s Montana hunting lodge. It needs to be fresh and contemporary. However, everyone’s taste in design is different. While some people might scoff at the idea of a birch tree bed — criticizing the piece for looking like an adolescent tree house, others will enjoy its shape, texture and overall whimsical accent. If you’re somewhere in between, opt for something similar but not the real thing. Honestly, is there anything more rustic and earthy than sleeping in the great outdoors? All you need to do is turn the white noise machine to the sound of crickets.

Photo of natural bedroom by Wicker Paradise via Flickr

Rustic Interior Design Ideas Use Natural Fibers, Textures & Patterns

If a birch tree bed or antler sconce is too over-the-top for your rustic interior design idea, then why not tone it down and go organic by incorporating more natural fibers, textures, and patterns throughout the house? Freshome recommends choosing wicker, rattan, hemp or Jute when picking out furniture. These classic materials have a soft, lived-in feel. Wicker furniture has an outdoor, Caribbean vibe, while rattan is slightly more tribal. Baskets and bamboo rugs will complete this interior style.

Photo of wicker chair by Wickerfurniture via Flickr

Rustic Designed Flooring

Flooring can not only be cold and drab, but the wrong color can kill the design scheme of your home. Carpet and hardwood are the two most popular types of flooring; however, unless you purchase a carpet in a color such as forest green, there’s nothing outwardly outdoorsy about carpet. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, can be distressed. If you’re angling for that log cabin pioneer look, then distressed wood looks rugged and weather-beaten. For a more unique appearance, install a cork or bamboo floor. These natural materials ensure the flooring doesn’t look or feel man-made, artificial or sterile.

Photo of rustic interior design idea for a wood floor by Seward Construction CO

A Rustic Designed Dining Table

Is there anything more earthy than a pot of steaming soup being served on a rustic dining table? This type of table will give your home an elegant, farmhouse feel. Make sure it’s distressed, weather-beaten, handmade, or antique, and large enough to accommodate several guests. The more worn the dining table is, the better — appearing as if it’s been around for ages, such as a family heirloom that’s been passed on from generation to generation. These types of tables are simple but well-built, and it’s easy to imagine them in the dirt-floored Colonial homes in the 1600′s. It doesn’t get much earthier than that.

Photo of rustic interior designed dinig room table idea by Wickerfurniture

For more rustic interior design ideas visit HMDhome’s Refined Rustic board on Pinterest

The post Rustic Interior Design Ideas appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

Name:  Ijeoma Onyejiaka
Title:  Interior Designer
Profile Page:  http://www.hmdpro.com/ilo/

Q. Date of HMD Certification

A. April 30th 2013

Q. Describe what you do in less than 20 words

A. I GO ON NEW ADVENTURES. WHETHER I’M WORKING ON A FILM OR DESIGNING A NEW RETAIL SPACE, I LIKE TO TRY AND MIX THINGS UP – TO KEEP THINGS INTERESTING. BECAUSE EVERY EXPERIENCE WE ENCOUNTER INFORMS ANOTHER PART OF OUR LIVES.

Q. What was your first car

A. RED AUDI A4

Q. What’s the worst job you’ve ever had

A. SONIC DRIVE THRU – I WAS 15 YEARS OLD AND AT THE TIME IT SEEMED FUN, BUT IN HIND SIGHT, I NOW KNOW THAT IT WAS NOT THE BEST PLACE TO WORK.

Q. Tell us about your professional background

A. WITH THE ADVICE OF A COLLEGE PROFESSOR (WHILE STUDYING AT PRATT INSTITUTE IN NY, NEW YORK) I CAME TO REALIZE MY NATURAL INCLINATION OF ALWAYS BUILDING AND ENVISIONING SPATIAL ENVIRONMENTS. SINCE THEN I’VE WORKED WITH HOSPITALITY DESIGNERS AND ARCHITECTS AT ICRAVE IN NYC, THEN EXHIBITION DESIGNERS AT THE AMERICAN NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM IN NYC. ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO I MOVED INTO THE SET DESIGN WORLD OF FILM AND TV, AND NOW BACK TO INTERIOR DESIGN FOR RETAIL, RESIDENTIAL, AND HOSPITALITY
PROJECTS.

Q. What professional groups or trade associations are you active in

A. NEWH, IIDA

Q. Any exciting awards or achievements you would like to share

A. DESIGNER FINALIST FOR KITCHEN LTO – A NEW DALLAS CONCEPT RESTAURANT PAIRING UP NEW DESIGNERS AND CHEFS FOR A “LIMITED TIME OFFER” EXPERIENCE.

Q. How do you describe your approach to your trade or the approach you take with clients

A. IT’S ALWAYS BEST TO UNDERSTAND WHAT A CLIENT’S DREAM SPACE LOOKS LIKE AND HOW YOU CAN BEST MELD YOUR STYLE AND VISION WITH THEIR NEEDS.

Q. What do you think will be the biggest single factor affecting your industry over the next five years?

A. THE ECONOMY. INVESTMENTS IN THE HOME CAN GO A LONG WAY AND CLIENTS SHOULD KNOW THAT YOU DON’T NECESSARILY HAVE SPEND AND ARM AND A LEG TO BEAUTIFY YOUR SPACE.

Q. Based on stlyle, which well known person would you love to design an interior space for?

A. GWEN STEFANI – EVER SINCE SHE CAME OUT WITH THE L.A.M.B. COLLECTION AND WAS FEATURED IN SOME CELL PHONE COMMERCIAL . I FELT LIKE “NOW THIS IS A WOMAN WITH EQUAL PARTS MODERNISM, REBELLION, AND STYLE”. MUSICIANS UNDERSTAND HOW SOUND MOVES THROUGH SPACE AND THAT IS AN EXCITING SENSIBILITY TO PLAY WITH.

The post HMDpro Spotlight: Ijeoma Onyejiaka appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

It was a gorgeous evening for master bathroom design, complete with fireflies,  when a lovely HMD client from the forests of Pennsylvania called to talk about designing a master bathroom online.

Here’s the BEFORE

HMD’s Master Bathroom Design Online

 

Examples of construction drawings, elevations, spec sheets, etc.Click to view slideshow.

This HMD master bathroom designed online story ends happily ever after with a gorgeous master bathroom design:

• SAVED $7,500 in hourly interior design fees
• SAVED $12,800 in flooring, fixtures & materials using HMD designer discounts
• AVOIDED $50K+ in construction costs recommended by the contractor

You can read about the online interior design process to learn all about how HMD saves our clients thousands with affordable fixed fee master bathroom design online.  Or, if you are like me, it’s time to enjoy the pretty pictures that say much more than any thousand words about bathroom design.

 

Here’s the AFTER

The remodeled footprint allowed for a large luxurious tub to be added to this master bathroom design.

The custom design master bathroom cabinetry fits the mood of the space, perfectly.

 

The challenge was finding more space in an older custom built home without expanding the footprint.  Expansion (and added cost) were of course the recommendations received by several contractors.

 

Located in a private forested setting this client chose to skip the window coverings and instead enjoy the view.

Looking into the custom designed two person shower.

 

By reconfiguring existing bedroom space instead of expanding the footprint of the home we  save our client over $50,00o in construction costs.  HMD created expansive his and her closets, and added a luxurious custom bath in the process.

 

HMD designer discounted sinks and faucets from trade sources.

 

We borrowed 3′ of space from the existing bedroom to create the look and feel of a “fine hotel suite” for both the bed & bath entry.  At the same time we were very careful to match the existing design and feel of this wonderful custom built home.  Luxuries include a heated floor, vaulted ceiling and his & her double shower.

 

The view from inside the custom two-person shower showing the dual master bath sinks included in the design.

Enjoy more HMD master bathroom design ideas online.

 

The post Master Bathroom Design Online appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

This HMD “How To” tip is all about how to choose an upholstered headboard.  We’ll help you to make the best decision possible based upon your budget, your style and how you use the room your upholstered headboard will live in.

We’ll also show you several great sources for upholstered headboards ranging from DIY to our favorite furniture manufacturers including Lee Industries, Bernhardt, Eastern Accents, Hickory White and Kravet.

Let’s start your discovery process by breaking down the options according to durability and quality.  Answer this question:

Do you utilize your sleeping chamber primarily for sleeping, or do you spend a ton of time leaning up against your headboard reading or watching TV?

Your answer to this question determines if you’ll need a durable solution or an upholstered headboard that can just sit there and look pretty.  

If Upholstered Headboard Durability is NOT a Driving Factor

For headboards in “sleeping-only” sanctuaries where your upholstered headboard is primarily for decoration (AKA it doesn’t have to be ultra durable) you have a TON of options starting with budget-oriented solutions and moving toward more expensive custom options:

Do It Yourself Affordability

Find a headboard shape that you like (don’t worry about the fabric, you’ll replace that!)  at a local consignment store, Craigs List, Ebay, etc.  Even a discount furniture website may do the trick.

Procure that headboard along with a few yards of a fun fabric.  Remove the old upholstery and make use of your trusty staple gun and voila – you’ve got yourself affordable DIY upholstered headboard!  

Here’s a “how to” example of a DIY upholstered headboard from Young House Love.

These are common headboard panel shapes you can use to commission a custom upholstered headboard

Commissioning a custom “headboard panel” can be a great solution and one that can actually be priced similar to or below many retail upholstered headboards you may find online or in a catalog.

A headboard panel hangs on the wall above your bed like a picture.  It can also have leg supports that fold down and attach to your mattress frame.

This panel solution offers you many options for customization including shape and height, custom upholstery fabrics and even customized trim details such as tufting, welts and nail-heads.

This beautiful upholstered headboard panel is currently under construction in HMD’s custom upholsterers workroom

When Upholstered Headboard Durability IS an Important Requirement

Your room may require more quality and stability for your upholstered headboard solution.  This could be applicable if your bedroom functions as a hang-out space or if you recline against the headboard and upholstery.  If you do, an upgrade in construction and materials quality is recommended.

A durable and beautiful solution is to commission a custom full-height headboard with feet that secure to the mattress frame. You can even add upholstered side rails to eliminate the need for a bed skirt if you like! This option is more stable because it’s solid all the way to the floor, and the upholstered side and foot panels give more “connection” points that stabilize the headboard.

Eastern Accents Headboard in a nuetral with no trim floral upholstery

The SAME Eastern Accents headboard pictured above but in a blue / white floral with nailhead trim

Choose a Synthetic Upholstery Fabric

Choose an upholstery fabric that is composed of mostly synthetic content so that oils, dirt, hair products and cosmetics aren’t easily absorbed by your upholstered headboard.  Over time these can cause stains and discoloration.

Buy Quality American Made Upholstered Headboards

You also have some great options when it comes to ordering an upholstered headboard or bed from “Made In America” furniture companies like Bernhardt,  Hickory White, Lee Industries, and Kravet.

These upholstered headboard furniture manufacturers all have “graded-in” fabrics you can choose from and they also have a “customer’s own fabric” option that allows you to use upholstery fabric that you choose to purchase yourself from any source, anywhere.  

These furniture companies also enable you with the ability to use a mix of wood and upholstery on your headboard.

Here are some gorgeous examples of the types of finer upholstery and stylish details available.

Lee Industries C1 46MP1T

Hickory White Upholstered Panel 565_24_56

Lee Industries 40-30

Hickory White 175_21_72

Bernhardt Sienna Flare Upholstered Headboard

Bernhardt Mercer Upholstered Headboard with Panels

Bernhardt 758_HFR6

The post How To: Choosing An Upholstered Headboard appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

The Surya wool rug sample program is an important part of our best practices and  ’how to’ advice for buying a a quality hand woven wool rug.

We are extremely excited to be able to offer this unique purchasing experience to HMD clients who are in the market for a quality hand crafted, hand tufted, hand knotted or hand woven wool rug.

How To Buy A Quality Surya Wool Rug

Step-1 Design Consultation: You’ll work closely with your HMD interior designer who will educate you on how-to buy a quality hand crafted or hand woven wool rug.  Your designer will help define your style, understand your budgeting priorities and ultimately guide you toward the rug with the color, pattern, texture, scale and construction quality that are perfect for both your room and your budget.

Step-2 Order Your Surya Wool Rug Samples: When you think we have found the Surya wool rug of your dreams we’ll order a small sample and have your beautiful little hand crafted or hand woven wool rug shipped directly to your home.

Step-3 Live With It For Awhile: You have up to 90 days to try before you buy.  Experience the durable hand made quality as you compare the wool rug sample during different light at different times of the day.  See how it holds up to kids, dogs and foot traffic.  Feel free to put some sample paint splotches on the wall or order some flooring samples in order to compare your rug to new colors and textures you are thinking about for your updated interior design.

Returns and exchanges are easy peasy.  If you determine that this particular Surya wool rug isn’t for you you may return it for a full refund within 90 days.  It must be in in resaleable condition.  You just pay return shipping, which is quite affordable.

If you love it, and chances are you will, exchange it for the full size Surya wool rug of your dreams and the cost of the sample will be credited 100% toward your purchase of the new wool area rug.

Best Pricing on Surya Rugs

HMD’s Designer Discounts are applicable to hundreds of quality Surya wool rugs and other brands as well for that matter.  Contact us for more information or a free no obligation price quote on Surya rugs.

Here are some samples you can window show for more information:

Surya Hand Tufted Wool ART-192

Surya Hand Tufted Wool Rug ART-193

Surya Wool Rug Made in India ART-195

Surya rug with three colorways ART-206

Surya Hand Tufted Custom Sizes Available ART-220

100% New Zealand Wool ART-224

Additional Colorway ART-225

Surya Plush High Low Pile ART-229

Hand Tufted ART-231

Surya Wool Rug ART-233

ART-234

ART-235

ART-55

ART-62

BSL-7111

BSL-7112

BSL-7128

BSL-7131

BSL-7133

BSL-7147

BSL-7149

BSL-7159

BSL-7165

BSL-7187

BSL-7189

BSL-7190

BSL-7191

BSL-7192

BSL-7194

BSL-7198

BSL-7199

BSL-7200

BSL-7202

BSL-7203

BSL-7205

BSL-7206

BSL-7208

BSL-7209

BSL-7210

BSL-7211

The post Surya Wool Rug Samples, How To Buy A Hand Woven Wool Rug appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

We recently asked some of our newest HMD Facebook friends a simple question about what they would do with free interior design advice:

If you had one hour of free professional interior design advice – what question(s) would you ask?

Here are the responses, thanks to all of our wonderful HMD clients!  We are so thrilled to be able to provide free interior design advice here on the HMD online interior design blog!

Free Interior Design Advice

 

Sara Graff ·  Top Commenter · Creator/Blogger at Saving with Sara
How often do I change furniture.
Reply · 1 · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 10:28pm
 
 

 

 

Patricia Trish Gambrell · N/A
how do you arrange picture to not look so jumbled up.
Reply · 1 · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 4:40am
 
 

Beverly Payton ·  Top Commenter · Colorado Springs, Colorado
The best way to achieve the “less is more” look.
Reply · 1 · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 3:10am
 
 

Susan Clarke Jette · Newbury College, UK
how do I turn my basement into a bedroom.
Reply · 1 · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:58am
 
 

Cheryl Kirby Thompson · Follow
How do I get the most out of my space without feeling cluttered yet look wonderful on a budget?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:31am
 
 

Rebecca Perkins · Baton Rouge, Louisiana
I have a formal dining room that I don’t want to be a formal dining room. I need ideas for it!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 11:11am
 
 

Eva Daniell
how often and what items should I use to update my living/dining room.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 3:22pm
 
 

Stephanie Mago-Eagle · Follow ·  Top Commenter · Freelance muralist/artist at Self
How can I make a small space look bigger, get the most out of my storage space?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:54am
 
 

Natalie J. Vandenberghe · Portland, Oregon
What would make our living-room seem more inviting?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 5:14pm
 
 

Lifeonprint Cindy Hickman ·  Top Commenter
How to utilize the space I’ve got and make it not look cluttered.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:27am
 
 

Constance Vann
What is the easiest way to decorate my home with a modest income?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 11:28am
 
 

Rosa Espinal · Follow · Wm. H. Maxwell VHS
How can I make my home more beautiful using my small budget!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:12am
 
 

Neha David ·  Top Commenter
how to add color in my living room.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 4:26pm
 
 

Penelope Terry
I would ask them to develop a palette of colors that would make the rooms flow and look cohesive.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 1:31pm
 
 

Mindy Koopmans Kingery · Independent Sales Advisor at Lia sophia
How to focus our eclectic style into a cleaner, more relaxing atmosphere.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 2:52pm
 
 

Bethany Marie Cortedano ·  Top Commenter
what colors compliment my geographical area?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 2:19pm
 
 

Jennifer Leann Arbuthnot · Follow ·  Top Commenter · Dallas / Fort Worth, TX
How can I find afforable items to match my bedroom suite.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 2:25pm
 
 

Connie Moore · Follow · Eastern Alamance High School
How to get most out of Apartment space on low or no budget.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 12:22pm
 
 

Kathy Lane · Gate City High
What’s a good flooring, but don’t costs a lot?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 11:58am
 
 

Great question for  free interior design advice!
 

Heather Miller ·  Top Commenter · Saint Louis University
how to add some style to my areas.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 2:12pm
 
 

Marie Muckey · West Geauga
how can I decorate on a budget.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 4:02pm
 
 

Joyce McDaniel
I would ask you what uphostery colors would be the best to match in my sunroom and how to choose the correct quality for the price.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 6:55pm
 
 

Robin Wolfe · Follow · Newark, Delaware
how do put in a laundry shoot from upstairs to the basement without losing any space.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 3:32pm
 
 

Jenny Ham · Follow ·  Top Commenter · Works at Rocket Scientist
How can I make this place look good…. Yet still be comfortable.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:36pm
 
 

Katrina L Gilson-Dauzat
How can I make the best out of this room, for the best from my budget?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 3:25pm
 
 

Christina O’Connor · Works at Ohio Valley Home Health
what can I do to update my living room within my budget?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 3:33pm
 
 

Christine Yvonne Groce
What do I need to do to make this room look fantastic?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 2:18pm
 
 

Crystal Sell
How to organize and make it look nice.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 3:23pm
 
 

Tamara Swanson
How do I add color and keep it classy!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 3:06pm
 
 

Linda Knight ·  Top Commenter
How to redo my fireplace.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:11pm
 
 

Lori Richman ·  Top Commenter · Ponder, Texas
Help!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 2:55pm
 
 

Dana McCurdy
I am seperated and I have the house and I need a makeover and don’t have the money or much furniture left to do anything with I would love to win a now how to do it over including a deck if it came with it. I wish anyone could hep me.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 5:36pm
 
 

Sherry Stewart Letienne ·  Top Commenter
I would ask how to take what I have & organize it in my home to make it look fabulous! Thanks for the opportunity!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 7:03pm
 
 

Denise Darcel Shook ·  Top Commenter · Elyria, Ohio
I am re-doing a childrens playroom….how to utilize the best of the spaceI have.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:50pm
 
 

Trish Masi
How can I open up a long narrow living room & create a larger illusion.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 10:56pm
 
 

Toni Purcell · Follow · Morris, Alabama
How to make my home family/kid friendly and beauitful too.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 8:56pm
 
 

Laura Fransen ·  Top Commenter
how to organize the closets and make the most out of a small space.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:39pm
 
 

Susan Coulter
I would ask about color and furniture choices.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 8:56pm
 
 

Robin Zanawich-Muth · Bloomfield High School
how do I make our foyer (which is big) light and airy?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:21pm
 
 

Sarah VM
How can I make hand me down furniture look good?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 4:51pm
 
 

Janice Geddings Joyner · West Mecklenburg High
I need some direction on style and colors.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 6:39pm
 
 

Dan Witte
Best utilization of small spaces.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Yesterday at 4:32am
 
 

Lynnette Watkins · Follow
What color could I paint my walls to go with my multicolored stone fireplace.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 5:46pm
 
 

Eric Sanders · Gaylord High School
I am going to build a whole new kitchen. How do I save the most on the products I need?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 6:46pm
 
 

Donna Yost · Follow ·  Top Commenter · Owner atUNEMPLOYED!!!!!
What a beautiful table.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 10:52am
 
 

Minta Boggs · Follow · Cincinnati, Ohio
Just help me make it look good.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 7:29pm
 
 

Latoya Munoz · Follow · Student at Bethel University
what can i do better?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 7:18pm
 
 

Susie King
What color makes a house look big?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 10:27pm
 
 

Jennifer Channell Starnes ·  Top Commenter
How to texture and paint.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 9:25pm
 
 

Linda Boyd · Follow ·  Top Commenter · NWTC
what goes with what I have.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 1 at 10:53pm
 
 

Sophia Parsons
Good luck to all
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 4:37pm
 
 

Michelle Hill
My place looks like a goodwill dropoff center, is there help for me?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 8:22pm
 
 

Sandy Weinstein
how to arrange my living room furniture with my baby grand?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 6:33pm
 
 

Shelbie Johnston ·  Top Commenter · Works at Doing My Own Thing
I have a small apt, how can I make the most of my space without it looking overcrowded.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 10:22pm
 
 

Pam Brown Shepherd · Follow ·  Top Commenter
how can I make my living room look good on a very tight budget?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 4:34pm
 
 

Sherry Lucas Schmidt · Leroy High School
How do I dress up a room inexpensively?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 11:56pm
 
 

Judith Moss · University of Pittsburgh
What color of paint should I use?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 1:01am
 
 

 
 

 

Joyce Moyle · Follow · Holcomb, Missouri
What color would look best on my family room walls.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Saturday at 11:05am
 
 

Robin Wolfe · Follow · Newark, Delaware
COULD A LOFT BE added to my catheral ceilings.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Saturday at 12:52pm
 
 

Annette Broxton ·  Top Commenter · Augusta State University
Do draperies really make a room look more elegant or is it more for room darkening?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 11:14pm
 
 

Gerry Davison · Terry Parker High
how can I make my rooms more attractive?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Saturday at 10:48am
 
 

Julia Cofer Speegle · Good Hope High School
HOW TO DISPLAY ALL OF MY COLLECTIONS WITHOUT LOOKING TO BUSY.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 8:49pm
 
 

Karen Rosaen Cairns ·  Top Commenter · Asst. Project Managerat G. Fisher Construction Company
How to buy lasting classic designs.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Friday at 4:28pm
 
 

Priscilla ‘Prissy’ Skelton
What should I do about my cypres would walls?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Friday at 1:00am
 
 

Kate Daly
HOW TO BRIGHTEN UP A NORTHERN LIT ROOM BEST.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 8:50pm
 
 

DG Middendorf
How do you make a room look bigger?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 4 at 10:55pm
 
 

Tara Benvin
where do I start?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · Friday at 11:50am
 
 

Kristina Shirkey
I don’t even know where to begin. Beyond furniture, I have no sense of fashion at all. I like everything neat and clean and earth tones. I do like some color, but I have no clue what I’m doing. From fabrics to decorations, I’m hopeless. So I’d have to ask for advice on what colors would go together and where to put the accents/decorations. How to align the furniture in the room so it doesn’t look crowded. Simple stuff for most, extremely painful for me. lol
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 4:34pm
 
 

Krista Grandstaff · Wichita Falls, Texas
I’d like to know what I can do to work with some of the great pieces that I have..update the room.. and work with the scale of the room!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 2:52pm
 
 

Michael Lay · Works at Hit man /undertaker
I want COMFORT and I want it big but not bulky – how do I accomplish it without filling my home with “overstuffed everything’?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:04pm
 
 

 

ZMom Smith ·  Top Commenter · Grossmont College
Can you make my bedroom blend more?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:54pm
 
 

RJ Legamaro
how to accessorize a room.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 11:50pm
 
 

Jane Jakins
clear the clutter?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:21pm
 
 

Shawn Stover
how to make more room.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 8:01pm
 
 

Terri Wilson ·  Top Commenter
help!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 9:07pm
 
 

MPaula Whelan · St. Clair County Community College
I love my main bathroom colours of pink and black. Apparently these are passe. I would also love red and black but I expect that would not be much better received. Any suggestions?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:11am
 
 

Kimberly Tedesco Matlack · Duboistown, Pennsylvania
I want my room to be warm, comfortable, and inviting but I want color–what are the best colors to use to accomplish this task?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:05pm
 
 

Meredith Peters · Round Pond, Maine
How can I coordinate the pieces I have with some new pieces to achieve an updated comprehensive environment?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:02am
 
 

Manda Marie · Works at Certified Consultant
Help me make the most out of my small spaces. How can I fit everything in without making everything close in on me?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:57pm
 
 

Jason Jamar · Tarboro, North Carolina
what are the interior things that can make your house up in value.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 2:12pm
 
 

Renee’ Johnson Simmons · Hillsboro, Oregon
Create a layout that works & functions well!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:20am
 
 

Bill Cooke ·  Top Commenter · University of Phoenix
How to paint better interior walls.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 10:15pm
 
 

Yelena Leychik · New York, New York
How do I make a tiny studio, look larger?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 2 at 11:35pm
 
 

Carrie Dupree Conley · Frederick Douglas High Elm City NC
How can I make my space look larger…
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:59am
 
 

Lisa Bouch · Follow
entered
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:58am
 
 

Chelsea Reboulet · Works at Incenta Federal Credit Union
We have a small living room with an arch way that leads to the same size dining room, how could we make it more open so we could have friends and family over?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 6:05am
 
 

Sarah Nichole Pennington · Follow · Indiana College of Bodywork Modalities
How can I make my house look like the pictures in the Homes Magazines!
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 11:41am
 
 

Lisa Burke Cook · Ashford High School
How I can redecorate on a little budget?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 12:19pm
 
 

Allison Dorsett · Geyserville, California
How can I make my living room more inviting?
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 1:25am
 
 

Stephanie Montgomery · Follow · Server at The Outback Steakhouse
How to make the most of small spaces.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · April 3 at 10:10am
 
 

 

The post 1 hour of free interior design advice: what questions do you ask? appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

Summer is almost here and we are welcoming the sunny season with FREE Personal Shopping Tours and exclusive Designer Discounts at Interior Design Centers all across America!

Interior Design Centers

If you aren’t already familiar with them Design Centers are where designers and design trade professionals go to access an absolutely ginormous selection of manufacturer showrooms for trade-only furniture, fixtures and finishes.

Design Centers are not open to the general public – which is why it is so exciting to offer HMD clients and website visitors across america a free personal shopping tour including access to HMD’s exclusive designer discounts from trade sources.

Personal shopping excursions with your HMD Certified interior designer at are available on a first-come, first-served basis on select days this summer.

We’re already booking up and days and times are extremely limited so please register below or contact us at hello@hmdhome.com to reserve your spot ASAP.

Here are some locations with bookings available:

Arizona Design Center, 7350 North Dobson RD Scottsdale AZ 85256

Laguna Design Center, 23811 Aliso Creek Road Laguna Niguel CA 92677

L.A. Mart, 1933 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90007

San Diego Design Center, 7310 Miramar Road San Diego CA 92126

San Francisco Design Center, 101 Henry Adams Street San Francisco CA

Boston Design Center, One Design Center Place Boston MA 02110

New York Decoration and Design Building, 979 Third Ave New York NY 10022

What If My Designer Center Isn’t Listed Here?

Don’t see your local Design Center listed here?  No problem, it just means that those tours are either coming soon or we may still be searching for a local best-of-the-best designer to HMD Certify.  Check out our list of Design Centers across America and contact us at hello@hmdhome.com to schedule your tour!

The post Now Scheduling: Design Center Shopping Tours appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

Lombards Fine Furniture is HMD’s preferred retailer of fine furniture in Columbus Ohio and they are sponsoring a home furnishings and design sweepstakes valued at $6,415.

Enter to win here

The post Win $6,415 in Lombards Fine Furniture and Design Giveaway appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

Looking for nursery design ideas?  Whether it’s your first baby or your last, trying to prepare the nursery on a budget can seem like an overwhelming task. Add a small space to the scenario and it’s no wonder you are looking for help. No matter how cute the decorations, if your nursery isn’t organized it won’t be the peaceful haven you imagined or your baby needs. To tackle nesting on a budget for nursery design ideas, consider these seven tips:

Choose a Convertible Crib

A convertible crib grows with baby from newborn to toddler, and some even reassemble as a twin or full-size bed for later years. Store wide, short plastic containers filled with diapers and blankets under the crib, which can be hidden if your crib bedding comes with a bed skirt.

Re-think the Space

If you are short on floor space, consider this: Remove the nursery’s closet doors to create the perfect baby nook. If the measurements are right, you can clear out the closet and set up the crib. Most of baby’s clothes will be folded in the dresser anyway, and then you’ll actually have room for a dresser. For items that need to be hung, mount a rod to one nursery wall and put those cute onesies on display.

Focus on the Window

A large window brings outside colors in, which seemingly expands the size of the room. For smaller windows, hang curtains high and wide to make the window appear larger. Instead of matching juvenile-printed drapes to your baby’s bedding, opt for neutral-colored grommet curtains that will transition with your child’s age and style.

Control the Chaos

Many cube units are more narrow than the average dresser, so if you only have space for one or the other opt for a cube unit. Sort clothes per basket and keep free-standing items like books and lotions on top. If you use a dresser as a changing table, divide the drawers with collapsible fabric totes so you aren’t mixing diaper rash creams with clothes or constantly digging for lost socks or clean shirts.

Add an Accent

If you don’t want to be stuck re-painting the room in a year or two, opt for an accent wall covered in chalkboard paint. Use colorful chalk to write sweet messages to your baby and when she grows it can be a fun place for her to draw pictures for you.

Mirror Mirror

A thrift store find can easily be painted and hung in your child’s room for half the price of a mirror purchased at a home décor store. Angle your DIY mirror to reflect both natural and artificial light to help brighten any dark corners in the room. Bouncing light into every crevice, a well-placed mirror can manipulate the space and help it seem larger than it is.

Maximize Hanging Space

Instead of keeping everyday items up high on closet shelves, store clothes, blankets and diapers in hanging sweater drawers in the closet. If you have space behind the nursery door, use a shoe rack to hold lotions, bottles, binkies and toys.

The post Nursery Design Ideas appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.

Name:  Aja De Los Santos
Company: Investcove Properties, LLC
Title:  GM and Head Designer
Profile Page: HMDpro.com/investcove

Q. Date of HMD Certification

A. January 21st 2013

Q. Describe what you do in less than 20 words

A. I apply my vision or cultivate my client’s vision in order to achieve a beautiful and functional end result.

Q. What was your first Car

A. My first car was a 1992 teal Geo Storm. My grandfather bought it for me before I even turned 16. Needless to say having a car before I could drive alone was torture for a want-to-be independent teenager!

Q. What’s the worst job you’ve ever had

A. I used to babysit two of the worst children on the planet! Their mother used to never come home on time so I would be there for hours longer than I was supposed to!

Q. Tell us about your professional background, how’d you get started

A. I got my start in commercial construction as a financial manager. I quickly fell in love with the construction process and started helping with the scheduling and project management. We worked with large companies who built massive single family home communities. It wasn’t long before I realized that their designs were non-functional and basic.

Q. Any exciting awards or achievements you would like to share

A. I just completed my MBA in entrepreneurship last September from Nova Southeastern University; I was married to the greatest man I know and the love of my life on October 20, 2012; and one of the houses that I renovated in the beginning of 2012 won house of the month shortly thereafter!

Q. How do you describe your approach to your trade or the approach you take with clients

A. Communication! When I meet with clients I try to listen and take a lot of notes. I want to make sure I am true to my client’s wants and needs. Once we decide on a vision I am able to communicate budgets and time frames.

Q. What do you think will be the biggest single factor affecting your industry over the next five years

A. The real estate market. I not only work with clients, I also purchase distressed property and renovate it for resale. The real estate market in South Florida is so volatile right now. Whether I am working with my own acquisitions or a client commission I am always cognizant of the market and how the renovation/design will add value for the long term.

I also see a huge push away from trendy items like built-in wine fridges and outdoor kitchens.

The post HMDpro Spotlight: Aja De Los Santos Investcove Properties appeared first on HMD Online Interior Designer.