by David Chapman, Staff Writer
A house with blank walls and empty rooms might be move-in ready, but without the items that make a house a home, it’s a blank canvas.
Just how to decorate can be a chore in itself, but interior designers can help.
“We act like a coach, steering clients in the right direction so they can achieve a winning result,” said longtime industry veteran Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design.
Like many other components of the homebuilding process, Sisler Johnston recommends acquiring the services of an interior designer “very, very early” to help review floor plans and spacing issues, which can be adjusted, if needed, before it is too late.
“You want to make sure that dining room you want with a table of eight will actually be large enough for eight,” she said, as an example. “It’s important to make sure each room feels the way they (clients) think it will.”
It can all start with adequate and proper lighting, which Sisler Johnston said needs to be planned.
“Make sure it’s planned,” she said.
Though most new homes feature electrical outlets in floors, she said it’s important to ensure that proper lighting is adequate, especially since floor plans have trended to become more open.
Details like cabinetry choices and floor styles also can be important depending on the lighting and furnishings a room will have.
The goal is to have each complement the other if possible, she said.
Neutral tones can assist in that flexibility without being off-putting to potential buyers down the line.
As far as furnishings, availability has made what once was expensive more affordable, she said. Imports and other stylish adornments have become more prominent as people research and use avenues such as the Home Shopping Network as a means to acquire their home décor.
People purchasing such décor has been a trend in the industry for several years now, as has the move to more wood floors over carpet.
“It’s easier to maintain,” she said, though noted that carpet is still the mainstay in bedrooms.
Sisler Johnston also advised against “not going with the fads” such as themed homes in Southwest, Tuscan, cottage and other similar style that can be limiting and diminish value.
As for a less costly way to spruce up a room, she does have a favorite: accent walls.
“I like to use them because it’s an inexpensive way to add some punch to your room,” she said. “Just a gallon of paint.”
The economy is still a chief concern among many people looking to furnish a home, but Sisler Johnston said that quality over quanity is the way to choose.
“Invest in nicer pieces,” she said. “Invest in something you really like.”
Interior designers can help a homeowner step-by-step in making decisions on décor, whether it’s an in-home consulting session or trip to a store with the client to review furniture, tile or cabinetry.
Part of the challenge is staying educated and up-to-date on the latest styles, she said, and finding new ways of bringing value to a room, a floor, a wall or the overall home.
“Adding value to your home is what it is all about,” she said. “Everybody wants a lasting result.”