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Impeccable Style – Get The Designer Look In Your Home With These EASY Tricks!

[mks_pullquote align=”left” width=”300″ size=”24″ bg_color=”#000000″ txt_color=”#ffffff”]Ever wondered what the “secret sauce” is to making your home look like it was decorated by a professional interior designer?[/mks_pullquote]

We all want a beautiful home so we can wow our closest family and friends. For some of us though, our wallets are just not jumping for joy at the thought of splurging on a professional interior decorator. Who wouldn’t want their home to look magazine-worthy as if they just splurged on a designer? Trust us – getting the designer look in your own home is much easier than it looks!

A true designer knows it’s all about first impressions – and we’ve rounded up a few helpful tips that will help you whip your home into tip-top shape. You can make your home an impeccable show stopper by following these super EASY tricks professional designers swear by!

Trust us – it’s much easier to get the designer look at home than it looks! These industry secrets are super easy to follow and will take your decorating abilities to the next level!

Figure Out Your “Anchor” piece

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B Design

DESIGN TIP: Don’t pick out any décor pieces or colors until you you’ve chosen your anchor piece. Once you’ve defined what it is, choosing colors and fabrics to match will be much easier.

Every professional designer will choose one element that will pull the entire room together. It can be a gorgeous painting, large sofa, or even pillows. The anchor piece is the most colorful piece in the room, and you can use it to choose the color palette for the rest of the room.

This glam home office features a stunning sofa that anchors the entire space. With so many combinations of decorative throw and pillow ideas for sofas, you can really style your space in a way that suits your taste.

Create Sharp Contrast

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Branka Ink

DESIGN TIP: Designers are usually brave enough to use a combination of contrasting dark and light colors. Why? Dark colors work wonderfully to highlight the lighter, more intricate details.

There are so many wonderful ways to create contrast. Firstly, you can create drama using opposite colors, such as black and white, brown and beige, or navy and white. Designers are usually brave enough to use a combination of contrasting dark and light colors. Why? Dark colors work wonderfully to highlight lighter, more intricate details. This makes the lighter elements a more dominant feature.

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DESIGN TIP: The color saturation trick is my personal favorite!

Secondly, you can create contrast using color saturation. Color saturation is achieved by picking out one color you really love, and using it in darker and lighter shades. I personally think color saturation is great for beginner decorators. Since you’re sticking to the same color, it’s guaranteed to look good and you don’t have to worry about it matching with other colors.

Mix Textures and Trendy Home Design Styles

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Clay Construction Inc.

In this show stopping home, the rustic dining room décor combines classic elegance and touchable charm. The designer mixed the smooth textures of the white quartz countertops with weathered, rustic wood elements to create the perfect balance between new design and old world magic.

The secret to mixing styles is working with different textures. Looking to install smooth hardwood or tiles finishes? Then add an element of rough stone or a piece of weathered wood furniture. You can also add a touch of glitz and gam with crystal chandeliers, candles, and decorative rocks.

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When mixing textures and styles, it’s all all about using creativity and imagination. Glass and metal finishes look stunning when combined with natural elements such as rustic wood beams, walnut floors, or handcrafted furniture that will warm up your home.

 Style Your Bathroom Like a Hotel

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This step is super affordable and may actually may not even cost you a penny! When you take your towels out of the drier, roll them up tightly and stack them in metal baskets or on your countertop. Keep your towel game simple – plain white towels look clean and refreshing. Designers always use face towels and bath towels in different sizes for a true hotel experience.

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Tiffany Eastman Interiors LLC

Don’t forget to completely clear off your countertops! Only keep soaps and shampoos on display that have super pretty and decorative packaging.

To mask an area in your bathroom you aren’t happy with, or simply to fill up empty space, set up a pretty floral arrangement in a glass cup. A bouquet will draw the eye away from a cracked countertop, old tile backsplash, or any other decorating mishap you have going on at the moment.

Don’t forget to completely clear off your countertops! This means no toothbrushes or makeup in sight. Store your toiletries in the vanity or if you’re working with a small bathroom, keep your toiletries stored in plastic containers that look neat and tidy.

Create Levels and Layers With Your Lighting

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DESIGN TIP: Layering and placing your lighting correctly is the ultimate design trick of the professionals. So, how do you achieve this trick?

The biggest mistake made by rookie decorators is not layering and levelling enough lighting throughout their home. Layering and placing your lighting correctly is the ultimate design trick of the professionals. So, how do you achieve this trick?

Professional designers will use tall floor lamps, small table lamps, and extravagant chandeliers at different heights to create ambience. By combining different types of light at different levels, designers create the perfect mood and brightness professionally designed homes are famous for.

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Simon Orell

If you would like to highlight a painting fireplace, or ornate piece of furniture, use accent lighting which can be angled at the object to make it stand out from the crowd.

To create levels work from the bottom up. Add a tall floor lamp to a dark corner of your room, like next to a couch. Then, set a table lamp on a dresser or side table opposite of the room. Your main light source should be in the center of your room hanging from your ceiling, like a lantern or chandelier.

 

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Shop the Room!

Obsessed With Luxury: 5 Inspirational Million Dollar Homes

” Although definitely out of my budget – hey someone out there can probably afford it! – it’s fun to browse the lifestyle of the rich and wealthy. “

This week I decided to have some fun and feature a few inspirational luxury estates I found while browsing online. Although definitely out of my budget – hey someone out there can probably afford it! – I find it fun to browse the lifestyle of the wealthy. This post is dedicated to tropical and exotic homes from around the globe.

So if you’re obsessed with luxury or just want some home decorating eye candy, check out these 5 inspirational million dollar estates:”

1832 Galleon Drive – Napels, Florida

Christie’s Real Estate

This beauty will set you back a cool $49,000,000. 

A masterpiece in the Mediterranean architectural style, this Naples, Florida estate was built along the famous Port Royal waterway. This home is a testament to master craftsmanship with it’s beautiful stucco finishing, curved patio arches, and rustic tile roof. The attention to ornamental detail such as the iron gates, hand carved wooden doors, and european imported furniture make this one stunning beauty. The windows and blinds were hand crafted and custom built. To get this gorgeous look in your own home, check out http://affordableblinds.com/

Christie’s Real Estate

Completely romantic, the stone cobbled driveway adds warmth and vibrance with impeccable landscaped gardens and mature Royal palm trees.

The front of the home was designed in the shape of a Spanish courtyard. Completely romantic, the stone cobbled driveway adds warmth and vibrance with impeccable landscaped gardens and mature Royal palm trees. Royal palm trees are probably the most famous and prestigious type of palm tree, well-known for their “welcome to paradise” look! A perfect choice since they grow extremely high and don’t block the view of this home.

Villa “Ado” St. Barthelemy, Caribbean

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Christie’s Real Estate

An exceptional colonial villa built for those seeking peace and utter relaxation. Nestled high in hills of St. Jean, this home opens up to magnificent views and is built inside a tropical garden. Catch a purple and red sunset as you sip piña coladas while sun tanning by the pool. This home especially caught my eye due to it’s covered terrace and vaulted ceiling, which you have direct access to from the kitchen and two bedrooms.

Christie’s Real Estate

Although beautiful, this estate comes in at a whopping $11,660,248.

This St. Barthelemy villa also boasts 4 bedrooms, a master suite with an office and balcony, and breathtaking views of the bay and beaches.

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Christie’s Real Estate

A little similar to souther-style estates and their Greek-revival influence, the open porch is perfect for entertaining and welcoming guests. I personally have fallen in love with the palm tree garden above the pool. If you live in a tropical or warm climate, a palm tree garden is a great landscaping idea!

Waterfront Estate in Middletown, New Jersey

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Christie’s Real Estate

Set artfully along the Navesink River, this estate faces waterfront views, memorable sunsets, and a sprawling backyard and garden. With it’s classical elegance and all-American style, this home was completely restored back in 2014. Today it features modern amenities, a gourmet kitchen with professional appliances, and luxurious marble bathrooms.

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Christie’s Real Estate

What sets this home apart from the rest are its 360 degree views from the interior of the home and French doors that open up to a bluestone porch with views of the river.

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Christie’s Real Estate

Marble washrooms are a testament to the effortless and functional style and detail this home was designed with. Although gracious with it’s living space, this family home is extremely practical and offers privacy for every member of the family.

63-Acre Heaven Located Close To New York City

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Christie’s Real Estate

Built in 1902 on Great Island close to New York City, this home is still owned by a wealthy yet mysteriously unknown family. 

This home’s breathtaking panoramic views instantly caught my eye. At first I actually thought this was a tropical location! Actually, this stone estate is in Great Island close to New York City. Totally secluded and surrounded by incredible beauty and 14 acres of conservation land.

new york city long island mediterranean spanish style home estate waterfront amazing luxury homes real estate stone mansion landscaping equestrian horse farm ideas

Christie’s Real Estate

Built in 1902, this home is still owned by a famous and wealthy unknown family. The original solid stone house was built to the most luxurious standards and has impressive views all around. The home and horse stable were built by two hundred stonemasons, and it includes multiple guest beach cottages, a caretaker’s house for a full staff, a dock for boats, and a horse barn.

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Christie’s Real Estate

One cottages situated on the property is a 1860’s antique house that has it’s own privacy near the horse stable. With it’s own mini beach steps away from the crystal clear water, there is plenty of privacy and peace to enjoy the outdoors.

Mediterranean Paradise in Montecito, California 

california spanish style mediterranean stucco ideas clay roof tiles multi colored spanish style landscaping ideas courtyard design

Christie’s Real Estate

Known as Rancho San Leandro, this Spanish-style property is nearly 170 years old and minutes away from the sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean.

This Spanish-style, mediterranean ranch is set minutes from the Pacific Ocean in the shade of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Known as Rancho San Leandro, this Spanish property is 170 years old. Built originally in 1850, the Monterey House and equestrian facility were built in 2006.

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Christie’s Real Estate

Terracotta stone and desert-inspired gardens are adorned with beautiful olive trees and covered verandas. The earth-toned colors are evident in the cream stucco, clay roof tiles, and a natural stone driveway.

Christie’s Real Estate

Not only does this estate wow it’s guests with it’s grandeur and spacious gardens, it celebrates the colors and textures of the sunny Mediterranean with aged patinas and sun-kissed outdoor rooms.

This dining room and open concept family room extend to the outdoor patios and terraces for extra footage where the owners entertain their family and friends.

The outdoor and indoor spaces are strongly connected and the decor flows from the outside in. Potted plants and florals are used to decorate the kitchen and and hallways throughout the home. Natural materials such as airy fabrics, linen drapes, and wool carpets pay tribute to the natural feel of the space.

 

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Home Tours Shop the Room!

Tour This Amazing Fashion Blogger’s Transitional Home Office

Step inside every fashion blogger’s dream and take the tour of this dramatic and eclectic transitional home office!
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Susan Brunstrum Design

“Livable luxury” is the term used to describe designer Susan Brunstrum’s extravagant yet comfortable and refined decorating style. When designing for her client, a fashion blogger, she created a space that is versatile yet approachable.

Susan Brunstrum DesignBlack walls were a bold choice chosen to highlight the jewels of this room: beautiful clothing, sculptures, and bulky furniture which take center stage in this space.

Josie: Don’t forget to inspire yourself! When designing a home office, make sure your decor fuels your creative desires and hard work ethic. Your office should be a reflection of your hard work and a place you enjoy being in.

Shop This Amazing Office Below:

 
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Susan Brunstrum Design

A courageous decorating masterpiece, this office serves more than one purpose. It can be used as a professional work space, studio, meeting room, and photoshoot background!

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Susan Brunstrum Design

A totally genius move! Designer logo wall decals/stickers are placed on the ceiling for a sugary twist! Chanel, Fendi, Cartier and Prada wall decals are a great way to express any fashion diva’s personality.

Josie: I love the way Susan used designer label wall decals on the ceiling. Such a fun and creative idea! I recommend purchasing inspiration quote decals for a office if you’re looking to get a similar look!
HERMES chanel prada gucci valentino wall decal decals murals quotes sticker vynil crystal balloon chandelier fashion blogger walk in closet ideas inspiration home office eclectic style glam decor

Susan Brunstrum Design

A custom chandelier was installed to look like a romantic ballons floating towards the ceiling. Geometric or unconvential shapes make a space stand out from the crowd. This room features over the top bulky furniture which called for a large chandelier to match as well.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

DESIGNER TIP: Hang a small mirror from your ceiling instead of leaning it against the wall. It will make it appear larger and taller.

Hanging mirrors, anyone? A complete surprise twist! Designer Susan Brunstrum opted to hang the mirrors from the ceiling by equally beautiful gold chains. Totally genious and unique. Make sure you consult a professional who can install sturdy hardware if you are going for this look. Safety is always first.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Black walls were a bold choice chosen to highlight the jewels of this room: beautiful clothing, sculptures, and bulky furniture which take center stage in this space.

Get THE Look! Glam Office Table and Chair Set

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DESIGNER DIY TIP: Recreate this look with some affordable frames from your local craft store, and a can of gold spray paint! You can easily print off water color art right at home from your own computer to get this look on a budget. 

Fashion forward water color prints in black and white pay tribute to the overall fashion blogger theme Susan was going for.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Josie: This sunburst mirror features an artisan-crafted frame and gold leaf detailing, which give the impression of a well-travelled antique.

The sunburst shape is actually a dazzling decorative design that is centuries old. Susan created contrast with a sunburst mirror to break up the boring black wall.  It’s artisan-crafted frame and gold leaf detailing give the impression of a well-travelled antique. Not to mention it gives off a burst of radiant energy in the room.

Get The Look! Glam Sunburst Mirror Style

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Susan Brunstrum Design

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Itching to paint your walls black? We recommend the brand Sherwin Williams in the color “Tricorn Black.”

Black walls work well in large rooms because they ground the space and become a base for plenty of creativity. If you’re thinking about painting your own home in this color, we recommend the brand Sherwin Williams in the color “Tricorn Black.” I’s a very rich black that looks great during the day and night.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Don’t keep your glam jewelry pieces hidden in drawers. Show off your necklaces, rings, and cuffs with a beautiful display or inside a gorgeous bowl. Bowls add visual interest and are great storage option as well.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Gold leaf metal bookshelves display trinkets gathered during world travels. The mirrors reflects natural light into each other for the appearance of a well lit, sunny oasis.

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Susan Brunstrum Design

Fashion novels, or “bibles” as bloggers call it, are neatly stacked on display along with a pair of snakeskin designer heels. 
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Susan Brunstrum Design

Grouping of small floral arrangements were used because they are more romantic than a full vase. Arrange your flowers naturally, to give the illusion that they were just hand picked from the garden. Florals make a room come alive and instantly brighten a black and white palette.

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