#Pros of Interior Designer

[cuntholicism]

"is that a bit fucking stupid?" a massive tree attached to the roof of your tattoo-whilst-drunk-in-a-hottub-experience business whomst whole purpose is hiding an aircon unit? of course not

[olenvasynyt]

as a fellow pinterest lover - do you have any photos of how you imagine Eris' secret cabin aesthetic?

Oooh I got you, babe! I feel like its styleis very tutor, with dark wood and pale stone. I picture dark rafters on high ceilings with honestly fairly minimal decoration, I feel like he might not take up a lot of his time to decorate it, especially since it's a secret and he goes there in secret? The outside is pretty assuming and doesn't have the grandest garden, and it's definitely in the middle of an Autumn forest somewhere. Has a shit ton of books and maybe animal fur rugs or something that he got from hunting. I feel like he's not the kind of person to have animal heads mounted on his walls, though.

[likeexcuseme]

I did this using The Sims 4 screenshot but i lost it somewhere

[machetelanding]

[happywebdesign]

Norm Architects

[darlingflooring]

Comparative Benefits of Epoxy vs. Other Flooring Materials

Index

1. Introduction

2. Cost Comparison: Epoxy vs. Carpet, Tile, Hardwood, Laminate, and LVP

3. Customization Options

4. Durability and Longevity

5. Benefits for Landlords

6. Maintenance and Upkeep

7. Flexibility for Future Changes

8. Aesthetic Appeal

9. Suitability for All Rooms

10. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to Darling Flooring’s blog! As the owner of Darling Flooring, I’m thrilled to share why epoxy flooring stands out as a superior choice compared to other common flooring options such as carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your space or a landlord seeking a practical solution for rental properties, understanding the benefits of epoxy flooring can help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the reasons why epoxy might be the perfect choice for your needs.

Cost Comparison: Epoxy vs. Carpet, Tile, Hardwood, Laminate, and LVP

When evaluating flooring options, cost is a crucial factor. Epoxy flooring is often more cost-effective compared to high-end materials like hardwood and extensive tile installations. Carpet may appear cheaper initially, but it requires frequent replacement and cleaning. Laminate and LVP are more affordable but can still fall short in durability compared to epoxy. Overall, while the upfront cost of epoxy may be slightly higher than budget-friendly options, its long-term durability and minimal maintenance needs offer excellent value.

Customization Options

Epoxy flooring offers unparalleled customization compared to traditional flooring systems. With epoxy, you can choose from a variety of colors, finishes, and textures to match your interior design perfectly. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more textured surface, epoxy can be tailored to fit your style. In contrast, carpet and laminate offer limited design choices, and tile patterns can be restrictive. Epoxy’s flexibility allows for a personalized touch that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is one of the standout benefits of epoxy flooring. Unlike carpet, which wears out and stains easily, or hardwood, which can scratch and dent, epoxy provides a tough, long-lasting surface. It’s highly resistant to moisture, stains, and heavy impacts, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and environments prone to spills or heavy use. This level of durability means that epoxy can outlast most other flooring types, making it a wise investment for both residential and commercial spaces.

Benefits for Landlords

For landlords, epoxy flooring offers several advantages. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for rental properties. Epoxy floors are less likely to be damaged by tenants, and they are simple to clean between rentals. Additionally, the low maintenance requirements reduce the frequency of costly repairs and replacements. The long-lasting nature of epoxy ensures that landlords won’t need to replace flooring as often, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Epoxy flooring shines when it comes to maintenance. Unlike carpet, which traps dirt and requires regular cleaning, or tile, which can be difficult to grout and clean thoroughly, epoxy floors are incredibly easy to maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are typically sufficient to keep epoxy floors looking their best. This ease of upkeep contrasts sharply with the more demanding maintenance needs of hardwood and the grouting issues associated with tile.

Flexibility for Future Changes

One of the unique advantages of epoxy flooring is its ability to be covered with other flooring materials if you decide to change your home’s aesthetic. If you choose to install carpet, tile, or any other type of flooring over epoxy, it provides a solid, stable base. This flexibility allows homeowners to update their flooring style without having to remove the existing epoxy, saving money, time and effort.

Aesthetic Appeal

Epoxy flooring is known for its sleek, modern appeal. It can instantly elevate the look of any room with its shiny, smooth finish and customizable designs. Unlike traditional carpet or laminate, which may show wear and tear over time, epoxy maintains its new appearance for years. The reflective nature of epoxy can also brighten up spaces, adding a touch of contemporary elegance.

Suitability for All Rooms

Epoxy flooring excels in various environments, including high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. Its resistance to water and stains makes it ideal for these spaces, where other flooring options might struggle. Whether it’s dealing with spills in the kitchen or the demands of a busy bathroom, epoxy stands up to the challenge, offering both functionality and style.

Conclusion

In summary, epoxy flooring offers numerous benefits over traditional options like carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, and LVP. From cost-effectiveness and customization to durability and low maintenance, epoxy is a versatile and practical choice for both homeowners and landlords. If you’re considering upgrading your flooring, I invite you to reach out to Darling Flooring. Let us help you explore how epoxy can enhance your space and meet your specific needs. Contact us today to see if epoxy flooring is the right fit for you!

[m0thmachine]

Having ADHD and BPD is an endless cycle of interacting with something new and deciding you want to dedicate your whole life to it

[walkswithmycamera]

'Old Pubs of Liverpool' - The Vines aka 'The Big House' Source: CyprusPictures flickr

[scopecomputer1noida]

[nightcity9182]

[tilecleaningtoday]

The Pros and Cons of Saltillo Mexican Tile

Overview

Saltillo tile is a traditional, handmade flooring material originating from Northern Mexico. It is made from natural clay, formed into tiles, sun-dried, and kiln-fired. The final product ranges in colour from yellow to deep red, often with a blend of hues on each tile. Saltillo tiles are known for their rustic appearance and have been used in buildings for centuries.

Pros of Saltillo Tile

Environmentally Friendly

Natural Composition: Made from locally sourced clay, Saltillo tile is a natural, biodegradable product.

Low-Impact Manufacturing: Production involves drying tiles in the sun and firing in kilns, with minimal industrial processing.

Thermal Comfort: Offers a cooler surface in warm weather and retains warmth better than some ceramic tiles in colder seasons.

Aesthetic Appeal

Distinctive Appearance: Each tile is unique due to its handmade nature. The variation in colour and texture provides a rustic, aged look often appreciated in traditional and Mediterranean-style interiors.

Aging Character: Over time, the surface may develop a worn, antique appearance that enhances its traditional aesthetic.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Dirt Concealment: The earthy tones and textured finish help to disguise dust and minor debris.

Simple Cleaning Requirements: Sweeping or vacuuming is typically sufficient for day-to-day cleaning. Occasional mopping with water or a pH-neutral tile cleaner is recommended.

Optional Resealing: Resealing is advised for maintaining a glossy finish but is not always necessary for performance, depending on usage and traffic levels.

Cons of Saltillo Tile

Uneven Surface

Irregular Shape: Due to its handmade nature, Saltillo tile often lacks uniformity, resulting in an uneven surface.

Wide Grout Lines: Installation typically includes larger grout lines, which may be unsuitable for some design preferences or accessibility needs.

Mobility Considerations: The uneven surface may pose challenges for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility.

Durability Concerns

Susceptibility to Chips and Cracks: Saltillo is softer than many other tile options, making it more prone to damage from impacts or heavy furniture.

Discolouration: The tile surface can show signs of wear and fading over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

Maintenance Requirements

Periodic Resealing Needed: Unlike fully vitrified ceramic tiles, Saltillo requires resealing to protect against stains and moisture. This is especially important in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms.

Labour-Intensive Refinishing: Restoring the surface to a like-new appearance involves sanding and resealing, which may require professional services.

Challenging Installation

Complex Fitting Process: Installation is more demanding than standard ceramic tiles. Tiles must be carefully spaced and set to accommodate irregular shapes and sizes.

Requires Experienced Installer: The uneven nature of the tiles and their thickness make it important to use installers familiar with Saltillo tile to avoid air pockets, cracking, or misalignment.

Saltillo tile is a traditional flooring option that provides a natural, rustic aesthetic and environmental benefits. However, it comes with certain practical limitations, particularly in terms of durability and installation requirements. Its suitability depends on the intended application and the preferences of the property owner or designer.

Source: www.Discover.HubPages.com

[probuildersexpress]

Planning a Home Addition in LA County? Here’s What You Really Need to Know Before You Build

Adding space to your home can feel like a dream come true—a bigger kitchen, a new bedroom, or even a second story. But in Los Angeles County, home additions require more than just enthusiasm and blueprints. Permits, zoning regulations, project planning, and financing all play a critical role in turning a vision into reality.

At Pro Builders Express, we specialize in helping homeowners through every stage of that process—from initial concept and city permits to final construction and walkthroughs. Whether you’re in Whittier, Montebello, or nearby, this guide will walk you through what to expect and how to set your addition project up for success.

What Is a Home Addition?

A home addition is a construction project that physically expands your home’s footprint. These projects go beyond cosmetic changes—they permanently increase your square footage and can significantly improve how your home functions for your lifestyle.

Common examples of home additions include:

Expanding a kitchen or dining area

Adding a new bedroom or bathroom

Converting a garage into living space

Creating a detached guest house or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

Building upward—adding a second story or loft

No matter the size or style, home additions require careful planning and usually local government approval. This is where many homeowners hit a wall—and where Pro Builders Express steps in to guide them.

Yes, Permits Are Required—And Here’s Why

Many homeowners ask, “Do I really need a permit for this?” The short answer in LA County is yes. Permits aren’t optional—they’re legally required for room additions, structural changes, and even some HVAC and plumbing work.

Here’s what a building permit protects:

Your home’s structural integrity

Your family’s safety

The value of your property when selling or refinancing

Legal compliance with zoning ordinances, Title 24, and the California Residential Code

Failure to obtain a permit can result in fines, demolition orders, or denied refinancing requests when lenders or buyers request inspection records.

To learn more, check out the Los Angeles County Building & Safety Department—the authority on permits, codes, inspections, and more.

Zoning & Planning: What You Need to Consider Locally

Your home may sit on private property, but not every part of that land is fair game for expansion. That’s where zoning ordinances and planning departments come in.

Key zoning terms to understand:

Setbacks: The minimum distance your new structure must be from property lines, roads, and other buildings

FAR (Floor Area Ratio): Maximum square footage allowed on your lot

Lot coverage: Percentage of your land allowed to be covered by structures

Height restrictions: Especially important for second-story additions

Historic Overlay Zones: Homes in designated areas may face stricter design reviews

Before you design a floor plan, your contractor should check these requirements. At Pro Builders Express, we handle this groundwork for every addition project.

The Timeline You Can Expect

Construction projects run smoother when you have a realistic sense of what’s coming. Here’s what the home addition timeline typically looks like:

1. Initial Consultation & Site Review Meet with a contractor to assess your current layout, discuss your goals, and walk through your lot’s potential.

2. Architectural Design & Drafting You’ll need to produce professional plans that meet building codes. These are submitted to your city for approval.

3. Permit Submittal Depending on the city, the permit process can take 3–6 weeks. Some neighborhoods or HOA-covered communities may take longer.

4. Construction Once approved, your home addition is scheduled for framing, foundation, utility work, finishes, and inspections.

5. Inspections & Final Signoff City officials will conduct site visits at multiple stages. Once everything passes, your project is ready for final walkthrough and handover.

This full process—from design through construction—can range from 2–4 months or more depending on scope.

Planning for Budget & Financing

Cost is one of the biggest questions homeowners have—and it’s a smart one to ask early. The price of home additions varies widely based on:

Square footage

Materials selected

Structural changes required

Permit fees, plan review, and inspections

Site conditions (flat vs. sloped lots, utility access)

That said, here are some ballpark figures:

Small bump-outs or bathroom additions: $25,000 – $50,000

Mid-size kitchen or room expansion: $50,000 – $90,000

Full second-story or guest house: $100,000+

Need help managing costs? We offer financing and can help connect you with lenders who specialize in home improvement loans.

Why Choose Pro Builders Express?

With so many contractors out there, what makes Pro Builders Express the right fit for your addition project?

✔️ We manage city plans and permits on your behalf ✔️ We’re fully licensed, local, and experienced in LA County construction ✔️ We offer clear communication, including budget and schedule updates ✔️ We specialize in real residential work—not cookie-cutter builds ✔️ We’re here to build spaces that actually work for you—not just look good in photos

Read more about us here or drop us a line to ask questions directly.

💡 Get in Touch Today

We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from blueprints to your front porch.

📞 Want to speak to a project expert about your custom home? 🔗 Contact us here or visit our Google listing to schedule a free consultation.

📍 Pro Builders Express Address: 14408 Whittier Blvd b9, Whittier, CA 90605, United States Phone: +1 (562) 755–7790 Business Hours: Monday — Saturday: 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM Sunday: Closed 🌐 Visit Our Website

Homeowners Ask Us…

Do I need my neighbor’s permission? Usually no—but if you're building close to property lines or modifying shared walls, notification or cooperation may be needed.

Can I add a bathroom anywhere in the house? Technically yes—but it depends on proximity to sewer lines, venting systems, and space requirements. We’ll check feasibility before drafting plans.

Is it possible to live in my house during construction? For small additions, yes. For major structural work, we may recommend short-term relocation for safety and comfort.

How much will my property taxes increase? The increase depends on how much new square footage is added and the value of the improvements. LA County will reassess the new area once complete.

Final Thoughts

Home additions allow you to stay in the neighborhood you love while upgrading the home you live in every day. Whether it’s making space for kids, adding a guest suite for extended family, or building the dream kitchen you’ve always wanted—these projects offer lasting benefits if done right.

At Pro Builders Express, we’ve completed hundreds of home additions across Whittier, Pico Rivera, Downey, Montebello, La Mirada, and beyond. We’re not a big-box builder—we’re a local partner who knows how homes in LA County are built and how they need to work.

Let us help you turn space problems into smart solutions.

Got Questions?

Leave them below or shoot us a message. Whether it’s about structural changes, permits, schedules, or financing—we’re happy to share real insights from real projects.

📌 Reblog if you're planning your own addition or know someone who is—it helps others discover resources they can use, too.

[tameblog]

Renovations can be pricey and, when you start adding in the rates for an interior designer, it can be tempting to consider going the do-it-yourself route. You think to yourself, how difficult can it be to pick out paint or decide on a new kitchen backsplash? The truth is, it might be harder than you think. "A renovation requires hundreds of decisions, and hiring a designer to create a plan from the start can save you from a lot of decision fatigue," says Tara McCauley, interior designer at Tara McCauley LLC. "It's never a good idea to work piecemeal, because it's important to make sure all the decisions you make—from lighting, to tiles, to layout—work together." However, that doesn't mean you can't do anything on your own. There are some design decisions where designers would encourage you to experiment with your preferences and personality—you just have to know the right places to dip your toe into DIY. Need some guidance on where to start? Here's where three experts say you can do-it-yourself and when they say you should hire a design professional. When to Hire a Professional Designer When you're deciding whether to hire a designer, first, be honest with yourself. "If you know you're out of your depth or just too busy to think about it then there's no shame in hiring someone who lives and breathes design," says Christine Jahan, principal interior designer at Christine Jahan Designs. Then think about the sakes at hand. If you're making expensive decisions or changes that make a massive impact on how your space functions, then it makes sense to bring in a professional. "A good designer will make sure you love walking through your front door every single time," Jahan says. "And that’s worth getting right." Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom Whenever you're remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom, it's a good idea to enlist the help of the professionals. In many cases, this type of renovation involves both plumbing and electrical work, and even permits. Navigating this as a DIYer is not only intimidating, it can be costly if you make a mistake. "If you're remodeling a kitchen, reworking a bathroom, or moving walls around, do yourself a favor—bring in a designer," Jahan says. "It's not about being fancy. It's about making sure you don't end up living with choices you regret every single day." Selecting Tile and Finishes You might love a mosaic floor tile and a granite countertop, but do those go together? These are pricey decisions that need a game plan and, often, non-professionals aren't trained to see how they all relate together in the bigger picture. "When it comes to selections like countertops, tile, and backsplashes, it’s easy for homeowners to fall in love with bold pieces individually," says Brittney Ludecke, owner of Signature Styles by Brit LLC. "But when installed all together, sometimes those elements end up competing for attention instead of working together cohesively." She says that a designer can help balance those choices and come up with the overall vision. Moving Walls If you're moving walls around, it's wise to bring in a designer (and maybe an architect, too). From the way the space flows to the structural integrity of a home, DIYing it is rarely the answer when a renovation reaches this stage. "Renovations move quickly, and if you’re not prepared with exact measurements, clear drawings, and a well-sequenced plan, the result might be an aggravated contractor or a costly re-do after the work is done incorrectly the first time," McCauley says. Considering Functional Layout Changes Whether you're undergoing a major renovation or simply shifting furniture around to use your space in a more effective way, a designer is trained to balance the beauty and the practicality in a way that most homeowners are not. "It’s important to have someone who can see the space from a fresh, functional perspective," Ludecke says. "Homeowners often get used to the way their home is set up and might not realize that with a few small layout tweaks, they could significantly improve the flow and usability of the space." Choosing Paint Choosing a paint color might seem like an easy task. Just pick a color that you like, right? There's actually so much more than goes into it and, if you make the wrong decision, that can cost you a pretty penny. "Even something as simple as picking paint colors can turn on you," Jahan says. "Light shifts. Moods change. What felt perfect at the paint store can look completely wrong once it's on four full walls." Selecting Drapery There are so many places to go wrong when it comes to selecting drapery. From getting the wrong fabric to the wrong measurements, drapery and other window treatments can be difficult to get right unless you've been through the routine many times before. "Things like drapery can be where it gets tricky," Jahan says. "Pick the wrong scale, the wrong length and you'll notice, even if you don't know why." What to Do Yourself It's not a bad idea to try your hand at doing it yourself, particularly if you're working on elements in the home that aren't expensive or permanent decisions. From a quick shopping trip to trying out a new trend, there are some situations where it makes more sense to save your money. Picking Out Bedding and Textiles Updating a room with bedding, pillows, and other textiles is a quick way to make a big impact, and it's also a more affordable approach to decorating. And that's exactly why it's something that's safe to try yourself. "When it comes to things like picking out bedding or adding a few throw pillows, you can trust your gut," Jahan says. Styling a Table or Bookshelf While some people will hire someone to come in and style their bookshelves and their little vignettes throughout their home, you can absolutely try this on your own first. You have nothing to lose but time, particularly if you style these surfaces using items that you already have around the house. "Styling a coffee table is a low-risk decision, and honestly, it should feel a little personal anyway," Jahan says. Updating Smaller Spaces If you want to flex your design muscles, start with a low stakes space. Jumping in to a living room or a main bedroom could lead to expensive design mistakes, but there's less pressure when you're wallpapering a tiny laundry room or choosing a bold paint color in a guest bedroom. "Smaller spaces like guest bathrooms or laundry rooms can also be fun areas to experiment if you feel confident," Ludecke says. Making Temporary Decisions If you just want to choose an interim coffee table or a paint color that you know you're going to swap out in a year, don't bother with the investment of hiring a designer. These are temporary decisions that won't have a lasting impact, so you shouldn't spend more than you have to. "People shouldn’t hire a designer when they’re still in the 'maybe' phase—when they're unsure about how much they're ready to commit to the project, in terms of both investment and time," McCauley says. When to Combine Professional and DIY Design Even if you don't have the budget to fully hire a designer or you want the challenge of tackling design yourself, you can still bring in a professional opinion to help guide your decisions and avoid making mistakes. "I often work with clients by creating what I call a DIY roadmap, helping them confidently tackle certain parts of their space on their own while still making sure the big picture comes together beautifully," Ludecke says. Ludecke recommends hiring a designer for something as simple as a one-hour consultation to help define the plan, prioritize purchases, and figure out how to make existing pieces work together. "A little guidance at the beginning could save homeowners a lot of frustration," she says. Source link

[happywebdesign]

Mydriaz

[ramestoryworld]

Renovations can be pricey and, when you start adding in the rates for an interior designer, it can be tempting to consider going the do-it-yourself route. You think to yourself, how difficult can it be to pick out paint or decide on a new kitchen backsplash? The truth is, it might be harder than you think. "A renovation requires hundreds of decisions, and hiring a designer to create a plan from the start can save you from a lot of decision fatigue," says Tara McCauley, interior designer at Tara McCauley LLC. "It's never a good idea to work piecemeal, because it's important to make sure all the decisions you make—from lighting, to tiles, to layout—work together." However, that doesn't mean you can't do anything on your own. There are some design decisions where designers would encourage you to experiment with your preferences and personality—you just have to know the right places to dip your toe into DIY. Need some guidance on where to start? Here's where three experts say you can do-it-yourself and when they say you should hire a design professional. When to Hire a Professional Designer When you're deciding whether to hire a designer, first, be honest with yourself. "If you know you're out of your depth or just too busy to think about it then there's no shame in hiring someone who lives and breathes design," says Christine Jahan, principal interior designer at Christine Jahan Designs. Then think about the sakes at hand. If you're making expensive decisions or changes that make a massive impact on how your space functions, then it makes sense to bring in a professional. "A good designer will make sure you love walking through your front door every single time," Jahan says. "And that’s worth getting right." Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom Whenever you're remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom, it's a good idea to enlist the help of the professionals. In many cases, this type of renovation involves both plumbing and electrical work, and even permits. Navigating this as a DIYer is not only intimidating, it can be costly if you make a mistake. "If you're remodeling a kitchen, reworking a bathroom, or moving walls around, do yourself a favor—bring in a designer," Jahan says. "It's not about being fancy. It's about making sure you don't end up living with choices you regret every single day." Selecting Tile and Finishes You might love a mosaic floor tile and a granite countertop, but do those go together? These are pricey decisions that need a game plan and, often, non-professionals aren't trained to see how they all relate together in the bigger picture. "When it comes to selections like countertops, tile, and backsplashes, it’s easy for homeowners to fall in love with bold pieces individually," says Brittney Ludecke, owner of Signature Styles by Brit LLC. "But when installed all together, sometimes those elements end up competing for attention instead of working together cohesively." She says that a designer can help balance those choices and come up with the overall vision. Moving Walls If you're moving walls around, it's wise to bring in a designer (and maybe an architect, too). From the way the space flows to the structural integrity of a home, DIYing it is rarely the answer when a renovation reaches this stage. "Renovations move quickly, and if you’re not prepared with exact measurements, clear drawings, and a well-sequenced plan, the result might be an aggravated contractor or a costly re-do after the work is done incorrectly the first time," McCauley says. Considering Functional Layout Changes Whether you're undergoing a major renovation or simply shifting furniture around to use your space in a more effective way, a designer is trained to balance the beauty and the practicality in a way that most homeowners are not. "It’s important to have someone who can see the space from a fresh, functional perspective," Ludecke says. "Homeowners often get used to the way their home is set up and might not realize that with a few small layout tweaks, they could significantly improve the flow and usability of the space." Choosing Paint Choosing a paint color might seem like an easy task. Just pick a color that you like, right? There's actually so much more than goes into it and, if you make the wrong decision, that can cost you a pretty penny. "Even something as simple as picking paint colors can turn on you," Jahan says. "Light shifts. Moods change. What felt perfect at the paint store can look completely wrong once it's on four full walls." Selecting Drapery There are so many places to go wrong when it comes to selecting drapery. From getting the wrong fabric to the wrong measurements, drapery and other window treatments can be difficult to get right unless you've been through the routine many times before. "Things like drapery can be where it gets tricky," Jahan says. "Pick the wrong scale, the wrong length and you'll notice, even if you don't know why." What to Do Yourself It's not a bad idea to try your hand at doing it yourself, particularly if you're working on elements in the home that aren't expensive or permanent decisions. From a quick shopping trip to trying out a new trend, there are some situations where it makes more sense to save your money. Picking Out Bedding and Textiles Updating a room with bedding, pillows, and other textiles is a quick way to make a big impact, and it's also a more affordable approach to decorating. And that's exactly why it's something that's safe to try yourself. "When it comes to things like picking out bedding or adding a few throw pillows, you can trust your gut," Jahan says. Styling a Table or Bookshelf While some people will hire someone to come in and style their bookshelves and their little vignettes throughout their home, you can absolutely try this on your own first. You have nothing to lose but time, particularly if you style these surfaces using items that you already have around the house. "Styling a coffee table is a low-risk decision, and honestly, it should feel a little personal anyway," Jahan says. Updating Smaller Spaces If you want to flex your design muscles, start with a low stakes space. Jumping in to a living room or a main bedroom could lead to expensive design mistakes, but there's less pressure when you're wallpapering a tiny laundry room or choosing a bold paint color in a guest bedroom. "Smaller spaces like guest bathrooms or laundry rooms can also be fun areas to experiment if you feel confident," Ludecke says. Making Temporary Decisions If you just want to choose an interim coffee table or a paint color that you know you're going to swap out in a year, don't bother with the investment of hiring a designer. These are temporary decisions that won't have a lasting impact, so you shouldn't spend more than you have to. "People shouldn’t hire a designer when they’re still in the 'maybe' phase—when they're unsure about how much they're ready to commit to the project, in terms of both investment and time," McCauley says. When to Combine Professional and DIY Design Even if you don't have the budget to fully hire a designer or you want the challenge of tackling design yourself, you can still bring in a professional opinion to help guide your decisions and avoid making mistakes. "I often work with clients by creating what I call a DIY roadmap, helping them confidently tackle certain parts of their space on their own while still making sure the big picture comes together beautifully," Ludecke says. Ludecke recommends hiring a designer for something as simple as a one-hour consultation to help define the plan, prioritize purchases, and figure out how to make existing pieces work together. "A little guidance at the beginning could save homeowners a lot of frustration," she says. Source link

[alexha2210]

Renovations can be pricey and, when you start adding in the rates for an interior designer, it can be tempting to consider going the do-it-yourself route. You think to yourself, how difficult can it be to pick out paint or decide on a new kitchen backsplash? The truth is, it might be harder than you think. "A renovation requires hundreds of decisions, and hiring a designer to create a plan from the start can save you from a lot of decision fatigue," says Tara McCauley, interior designer at Tara McCauley LLC. "It's never a good idea to work piecemeal, because it's important to make sure all the decisions you make—from lighting, to tiles, to layout—work together." However, that doesn't mean you can't do anything on your own. There are some design decisions where designers would encourage you to experiment with your preferences and personality—you just have to know the right places to dip your toe into DIY. Need some guidance on where to start? Here's where three experts say you can do-it-yourself and when they say you should hire a design professional. When to Hire a Professional Designer When you're deciding whether to hire a designer, first, be honest with yourself. "If you know you're out of your depth or just too busy to think about it then there's no shame in hiring someone who lives and breathes design," says Christine Jahan, principal interior designer at Christine Jahan Designs. Then think about the sakes at hand. If you're making expensive decisions or changes that make a massive impact on how your space functions, then it makes sense to bring in a professional. "A good designer will make sure you love walking through your front door every single time," Jahan says. "And that’s worth getting right." Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom Whenever you're remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom, it's a good idea to enlist the help of the professionals. In many cases, this type of renovation involves both plumbing and electrical work, and even permits. Navigating this as a DIYer is not only intimidating, it can be costly if you make a mistake. "If you're remodeling a kitchen, reworking a bathroom, or moving walls around, do yourself a favor—bring in a designer," Jahan says. "It's not about being fancy. It's about making sure you don't end up living with choices you regret every single day." Selecting Tile and Finishes You might love a mosaic floor tile and a granite countertop, but do those go together? These are pricey decisions that need a game plan and, often, non-professionals aren't trained to see how they all relate together in the bigger picture. "When it comes to selections like countertops, tile, and backsplashes, it’s easy for homeowners to fall in love with bold pieces individually," says Brittney Ludecke, owner of Signature Styles by Brit LLC. "But when installed all together, sometimes those elements end up competing for attention instead of working together cohesively." She says that a designer can help balance those choices and come up with the overall vision. Moving Walls If you're moving walls around, it's wise to bring in a designer (and maybe an architect, too). From the way the space flows to the structural integrity of a home, DIYing it is rarely the answer when a renovation reaches this stage. "Renovations move quickly, and if you’re not prepared with exact measurements, clear drawings, and a well-sequenced plan, the result might be an aggravated contractor or a costly re-do after the work is done incorrectly the first time," McCauley says. Considering Functional Layout Changes Whether you're undergoing a major renovation or simply shifting furniture around to use your space in a more effective way, a designer is trained to balance the beauty and the practicality in a way that most homeowners are not. "It’s important to have someone who can see the space from a fresh, functional perspective," Ludecke says. "Homeowners often get used to the way their home is set up and might not realize that with a few small layout tweaks, they could significantly improve the flow and usability of the space." Choosing Paint Choosing a paint color might seem like an easy task. Just pick a color that you like, right? There's actually so much more than goes into it and, if you make the wrong decision, that can cost you a pretty penny. "Even something as simple as picking paint colors can turn on you," Jahan says. "Light shifts. Moods change. What felt perfect at the paint store can look completely wrong once it's on four full walls." Selecting Drapery There are so many places to go wrong when it comes to selecting drapery. From getting the wrong fabric to the wrong measurements, drapery and other window treatments can be difficult to get right unless you've been through the routine many times before. "Things like drapery can be where it gets tricky," Jahan says. "Pick the wrong scale, the wrong length and you'll notice, even if you don't know why." What to Do Yourself It's not a bad idea to try your hand at doing it yourself, particularly if you're working on elements in the home that aren't expensive or permanent decisions. From a quick shopping trip to trying out a new trend, there are some situations where it makes more sense to save your money. Picking Out Bedding and Textiles Updating a room with bedding, pillows, and other textiles is a quick way to make a big impact, and it's also a more affordable approach to decorating. And that's exactly why it's something that's safe to try yourself. "When it comes to things like picking out bedding or adding a few throw pillows, you can trust your gut," Jahan says. Styling a Table or Bookshelf While some people will hire someone to come in and style their bookshelves and their little vignettes throughout their home, you can absolutely try this on your own first. You have nothing to lose but time, particularly if you style these surfaces using items that you already have around the house. "Styling a coffee table is a low-risk decision, and honestly, it should feel a little personal anyway," Jahan says. Updating Smaller Spaces If you want to flex your design muscles, start with a low stakes space. Jumping in to a living room or a main bedroom could lead to expensive design mistakes, but there's less pressure when you're wallpapering a tiny laundry room or choosing a bold paint color in a guest bedroom. "Smaller spaces like guest bathrooms or laundry rooms can also be fun areas to experiment if you feel confident," Ludecke says. Making Temporary Decisions If you just want to choose an interim coffee table or a paint color that you know you're going to swap out in a year, don't bother with the investment of hiring a designer. These are temporary decisions that won't have a lasting impact, so you shouldn't spend more than you have to. "People shouldn’t hire a designer when they’re still in the 'maybe' phase—when they're unsure about how much they're ready to commit to the project, in terms of both investment and time," McCauley says. When to Combine Professional and DIY Design Even if you don't have the budget to fully hire a designer or you want the challenge of tackling design yourself, you can still bring in a professional opinion to help guide your decisions and avoid making mistakes. "I often work with clients by creating what I call a DIY roadmap, helping them confidently tackle certain parts of their space on their own while still making sure the big picture comes together beautifully," Ludecke says. Ludecke recommends hiring a designer for something as simple as a one-hour consultation to help define the plan, prioritize purchases, and figure out how to make existing pieces work together. "A little guidance at the beginning could save homeowners a lot of frustration," she says. Source link