home decor cheat sheets: need-to-know stuff for stylish living (2016)
Post on 11-Sep-2021
2 Views
Preview:
TRANSCRIPT
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
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
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
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
Domino
dominocom
Dominoisaone-stopdesigndestinationforfreshandfashionableinteriordesigninspirationwithshoppablephotogalleriesandtheirownlineofhomeproducts
Remodelaholic
remodelaholiccom
RemodelaholicisaDIYblogaboutremodelingonabudgetwithgreatresourcesandtipsonhowtomakehardprojectseasier
TheSillthesillcom
TheSill isashopfor indoorplants thatalsohappenstobeagreatresourceonhowtokeepyourexistingplantsalive
StylebyEmilyHenderson
stylebyemilyhendersoncom
EmilyHenderson is adesigner and stylistwho isgreat atmakingcomplicateddesigntopicssupereasytounderstandandapplyinyourownhome
TheSweetHome
thesweethomecom
TheSweetHomedoes thoroughandspot-onreviewofanythingyoursquodneedinyourhomefromfurnishingsandappliancestotoolsandtechniques
VintageRevivals
vintagerevivalscom
Vintage Revivals is a DIY and design blog with great tips on how to makethriftedfurniturelookbetterthannew
Acknowledgments
Thanks to allmy bossesmentors and teachers andmy parents who alwaysvaluedcreativityasmuchasanyotherskillorsubjectThankstoallthepeoplewhohiredmethroughouttheyearsdespitemyhavingthemostrandomstringofjobs and experiences Thanks to the founders and my fellow designers atHomepolishforcreatingsuchinspirationalandaccessiblespacesAndthankstoallmyhilariousintelligenthard-workingandcreativecolleaguesatBuzzFeedespecially the genius illustrator Alice who can take a string of words and aterriblesketchandturnitintosomethingdelightful
mdashJessicaProbus
I want to thankmymom for her never-ending love and support Thank youMichael for literally being bymy side night after night assuringme that thechair Iwasdrawing actually looked like a chairThankyouLoki for alwaysbeingjustanarmrsquosreachawayforallthosetimesIneededabreakThankyouto all my friends who cheered me on And of course thank you Jessica forgivingmethisamazingopportunitytomakethebookcometolife
mdashAliceMongkongllite
AbouttheContributors
JessicaProbusisawritereditoranddesignerlivingandworkinginNewYorkCity She has worked as an interior designer set designer prop stylist andproductiondesignerinNewYorkandAtlantaSheiscurrentlytheDIYeditoratBuzzFeed and a designer at HomePolish and she lives in Queens with herpartnerandanever-growingcollectionofplants
AliceMongkonglliteisagraphicdesignerandillustratorbasedinLosAngelesShe graduated from UCLA with a degree in designmedia arts and has sinceworked at an advertising agencymobile gaming startup and in various cafeacutesaround the world while freelancing She is currently a graphic designer atBuzzFeedHer obsessions includeDIY culture pretty stationery and her dogLokiShelivesinLosAngeleswithherhusband
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- Introduction
- Front Matter
- Living Room
- Sofa Styles
- Sofa Glossary
- Upholstered Chair Styles
- Coffee Table Styles
- Coffee Table Height amp Width
- Side Table Styles
- Side Table Height
- Dining Room
- Dining Table Styles
- Dining Table Size Round
- Dining Table Size Rectangular
- Dining Chair Styles
- Kinds of Stools
- Stool Height
- Bedroom
- Bed Styles
- Headboard Styles
- Nightstand Styles
- Nightstand Height
- Bed Pillow Arrangements
- Bed Sizes
- Tile amp Rugs
- Tile Patterns
- Living Room Rug Size
- Dining Room Rug Size
- Bedroom Rug Size
- Rug Glossary
- Windows amp Doors
- Types of Doors
- How to Paint a Door
- Basic Window Styles
- Leaded Window Styles
- Types of Blinds
- Types of Shades
- Mounting Options
- Types of Curtains
- Art amp Walls
- Paint Finishes
- Molding Map
- Types of Molding
- Gallery Walls 101
- Gallery Wall Layouts
- Art Height
- Light
- Types of Lighting
- Kinds of Lampshades
- Table Lamp Styles
- Floor Lamp Styles
- Hanging Light Height
- Places You Need Light
- Bathroom Light Tricks
- Parts of a Lamp
- Hardware amp Cabinetry
- Cabinet Knobs
- Doorknobs
- Lightbulbs
- Beginnerrsquos Guide to Lumens
- Screws
- Screw Heads
- Nails
- Design amp Decor Tricks
- How to Make A Floor Plan
- Flow of a House
- Focal Points
- Layers of Light
- Proportion and Scale
- Curtain Height
- Best Indoor Plants
- Furniture Redo
- Fabric Yardage Chairs
- Fabric Yardage Beds
- Resource Guide
- Acknowledgments
- About the Contributors
-
top related