When I merchandise my models, my goal to make them appeal to the targeted buyer that the builder has identified and will be marketing to. Is this development priced for first time homebuyers, move-ups, second homes, retirement or maybe executive? Then I find out how much the builder has budgeted to spend. Now that amount can really vary from builder to builder and project to project. Many times the amount is dependent upon how many lots the builder has to sell, because what is spent on the models gets figured into the overall price of the development. On average what is spent on models is between $15.00 and $25.00 per square foot. Which means if the model of your home was 2000 square feet and lets say the builder spent $18.00 per square foot, they would have spent $36,000 decorating the model. I know that is a wide range, but there are many factors involved, such as the number of lots, targeted buyer, the price of the homes, and the competition. A smaller project being sold to first time homebuyers may range from $15.00 to $18.00 per square foot. A larger project targeted to move-up or executive buyers may range from $19.00 to $25.00 per square foot.

What’s included in that price is everything that you see in the models, except the typical items that come with the home. Such as flooring, counters, cabinets, lighting and appliances. Also included in that price is the designer’s fee, but being we’re buying at wholesale prices, you can still use these numbers in your figuring since you’ll be buying at retail.

Once I have my budget and who the targeted buyer is, I now look to see what trends are popular in interiors and colors, and what their lifespan is expected to be. Since most projects are open 18 to 24 months, it is important that the models are merchandised in colors and themes that will not be dated by the end of the season. It is also important that they are designed to appeal to the targeted buyer. Knowing that everyone has different likes and dislikes, we design the models to appeal to the broadest number of people that will be looking at the homes. For example, if a Retro style in bright bold colors was the trend, I might use it in a project targeted to first time homebuyers over retirees. Now I know that many retirees may like a bright bold retro look, but the majority of them probably will not, whereas there is a better chance that it will appeal to a larger majority of younger homebuyers who may be more daring, bolder and willing to design in a trend.

So the next time that you ask to have your home decorated just like a model, remember that it is more important that you design your home together. It needs to be your home when the designer leaves and not just another model home that’s been designed without your personal likes and dislikes in mind. So now that you have a little insider information on model home merchandising, what can you do to merchandise your home to look like a model?

First, have a common theme and color scheme throughout the home. If my theme is old world Italian with a color scheme of amber, russet and moss green, that theme and color scheme will be in every room of the house. By having one theme and color scheme it will make your home more harmonious, have a continuously flow and feel larger. To properly flow your colors through your home, take the colors from your color scheme and let’s start in the living and dining room; select one color as the primary, one as the secondary and the third as the accent. Now moving onto the kitchen and family room, select either the secondary or accent from the living and dining as your primary, then a secondary and then accent. What you want to do is change what is your primary, secondary and accent colors are throughout the house, otherwise your primary color will become overwhelming. If you used gold as the primary color in every room, all that you would see as the color throughout the house is gold. It would be so overwhelming you probably wouldn’t even see the other colors, plus you would tire of it quickly.

Your color scheme is essential in the flow of your theme, mood and style throughout your home and the most important element in unifying your home. Color harmony includes the mixture of color, patterns and texture in a well-balance scheme.

Some color scheme guidelines to help you:

• Fewer colors are easier to work with
• Use all of the colors in your scheme in the entry
• Do not use equal amounts of color in each room. A dominant color should be 60% of a room.
• Connecting rooms should have a common color.
• Repeat colors in wallpaper, fabrics and accessories.

The main goal is for your color scheme to flow harmoniously from area to area in a well balance fashion. Your color scheme must also flow with your theme, mood & style. For example, black and gold is great for contemporary but it would be difficult for it to work for country. As well as, blue and yellow can be country, but will not work well for a Santa Fe feel.

The next area that I feel makes a difference in models is in our accessory merchandising. Accessories are essential in bringing unity to your theme, mood, style and color scheme. Look at your accessories and determine if it is time to buy a couple new ones that will continue your theme and color scheme you’re creating. If in the past you had a traditional home and used gold frames but are now looking to go towards a Key West tropical look, it is probably time to donate your frames and buy new. Or how about keeping your old frames in your gift box and the next time that you give a picture of the kids to their grandparents, place it in one of your frames. Also, look at the colors in the matting of your artwork, floral arrangements and candles. If you’ve changed your colors, you can have easily change the mat color without having to buy a whole new piece, or switch out the dated colors and flowers in your arrangement and candles are one of the least expensive accessories, but ones that make a difference in the amount of color they will bring into your room.

Then never underestimate the use of greens. I love to use greens in my models and have to admit that I sometimes do overdue here just a bit, but they do soften any area and bring life into your home. But if you do not have a green thumb, use silks. Plus, we also use lots and lots of custom floral arrangements. My favorite places are the living room coffee tables, always on the dining table and master bath counter along with kitchen islands and niches.

When you’re out looking at accessories, consider using larger more impressive pieces, which again should repeat your theme and color scheme. Also remember to think of your table tops as more than horizontal surfaces but areas where you can tablescape. See it as a whole picture considering the style of the table, where it is placed and the look you’re creating. Instead of waiting for a holiday, set your dining table everyday. Add color and height to your table with a floral arrangement and by placing napkins inside your wine glass instead of next to your place settings.

Now, finally I’d like to dispel the myth that there are special model home manufacturers that make smaller beds and furniture. I have been designing model homes for almost 14 years and I have never come across one yet. If anyone out there knows of one, please share the information with me. I buy from the exact same manufacturers that you see in the major furniture stores. If in doubt, the next time you’re in a model open up a draw and look inside for the manufacturers name. Now we may buy from manufacturers you’re not familiar with as we go to furniture markets all over the country and not every store in town may carry some of the lines we’re using. The only reason I can think that people feel we buy special furniture is that we make the rooms look larger by the furniture placement and selection. In secondary bedrooms, we may place a regular twin size bed along the wall from a corner versus a full size bed straight out from the wall. In a master it will be rare that you’ll see a triple dresser plus an armoire used, unless it is a big master. Instead I’ll use two bedside chests and an armoire. Plus, if the master is small, I’ll use a full or queen over a king that you might place in your own room. Plus, you’ll see floor lamps used instead of a table in living and family rooms to make them more spacious. So please know, there are no model home furniture makers, just interior merchandisers who design the models to be open and inviting. Have fun visiting the many model homes throughout town. Remember to bring your camera with you to snap pictures of any styles, colors or arrangements that you’d like to use in your home by adding your own personal style and touch to make your home your very own model home.

WHO ARE INTERIOR DESIGNER’S?
An Interior Designer is a trained Professional who can provide a service or product for anything in the interior of a building or home. An Interior Designer should save you time, money and costly mistakes in decorating your home. It is my practice to never charge a client retail and always give more than expected. We are problem solver’s and helpers in completing the decorating of your home.


WHAT ARE SOME THINGS AN INTERIOR DESIGNER DOES?
Some areas a designer can help with are:
* Color Coordination
* Fabric Selection
* Theme, Mood & Style Creation and Coordination
* Furniture Layout
* Window & Wall Treatments
* Bedding & Accessories
* New Home Selections – Flooring, Counters, Cabinets
* Review Blueprints to make sure they will meet your furniture and living needs.

A designer also has all of the resources to select, purchase and install any product or service that you may need. Such as; finding a wallpaper, purchasing it for you and having it installed by a qualified installer. A designer is your personal Project Manager for whatever you hire them for.

WHEN SHOULD I HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
An Interior Designer can be hired at any point in your decorating plan, beginning, middle or end. But involving a designer earlier in the stages of your design project will make things easier for you. You hire a designer when you feel you need the help, don’t have the time, or don’t want to do it yourself. I find most people know what they like and have a personal sense of decorating. But sometimes want a little guidance in things as; color coordination, pulling together a theme, mood and style, finding the right furniture, artwork and accessories or just making their home complete. Or maybe you need someone to complete a project you can’t. Like make and install custom window treatments, install new flooring, build custom furniture or finding the right installer for the job.

HOW MUCH DO INTERIOR DESIGNER’S CHARGE?
This is one of the most hesitant question people ask. Designer’s are no different than any other professional and we all charge different rates depending upon the services we are hired to do. But most designer’s will discuss their fees over the phone, so don’t be afraid to call and ask. They will though need to ask you some questions in order to give you a reasonable answer. Such as; What are you looking to have done? Do you have a timeframe you are working in? Are you going to do the work yourself by shopping in local stores, or do you need help in competing your design? Are you working within any budget constraints? Also, just as you pay for an initial consult with a doctor or attorney, most designers charge for an initial consultation. Ask what they charge and what you will receive in return.

HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED TO HIRE A DESIGNER?
Every designer works different.  Many only have a minimum of one or two hours of their time.  Some designers do specialize and may have a minimum fee, but ask before setting the appointment. I believe Interior Designers are available and affordable to all.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT WHEN I HIRE A DESIGNER?
Expect to be working with a professional. Depending upon the services you hire the designer for, normally your first appointment is a fact finding mission. They need to gather as much information from you to insure that you are both working towards the same goal. The second appointment you are normally presented with samples and pictures to review, sort out and approve. By the third appointment you should start making decisions on the items to be completed and the fourth appointment ordering should begin. Then depending upon what is being completed additional appointments may be necessary for finalization. Your designer will then place your orders, follow-up, project manage, schedule installations and follow-up on completion. Also, make sure you hire someone you like, because as you can see, you will develop a close relationship with this person. Interior design is truly a personal service and you both must enjoy the experience.

WHAT IS A DESIGN CONSULTATION?
A Design Consultation is when you hire a designer on an hourly basis for decorating ideas and guidance. You can then complete them yourself or hire the designer to complete them for you. I find more of my client’s are trying things themselves to save money, but are just looking for a little help along the way. A Design Consultation is a great way to save yourself time, money and those costly mistakes by getting some advice from an expert before you start.

WHAT EXACTING CAN A DESIGNER DO DURING A DESIGN CONSULTATION?
Well a lot can be done in a design consultation and it can be as short as one hour. I can accomplish a lot in one hour and find three hours is about the maximum for both myself and my client. During a consultation, you are sharing many design ideas, solving problems and providing guidance. Some things which can be done in a consultation are:
* General Furniture Layout & Space Planning
* Color Coordination of any Fabrics, Flooring, Paint, or Finishes which you may have
* Window Treatment & Wall Covering Suggestions
* Review of Artwork and Accessory Placement
* Continuity of your Theme, Mood & Style

WHAT IS INTERIOR Re-Design?
This is a wonderful practice of design where we take just what you have in your home and re-arrange it to meet your new or changing needs. This is great for when you have moved into a new home and want to re-use what you have or if you have been in your home and want a new look. Everything moveable is re-arranged to give you a new and fresh look. You would be charged by either the room or by the hour, but expect to be given an exact amount before the re-arrangement would take place. Depending upon the size of the project, it should be completed in one day.

Don’t be afraid to call and talk to an Interior Designer. As you can see they can help in many areas of your home decorating plan and will save you time, money and those costly mistakes.

1. What size should my ceiling fan be?

Choosing the right size ceiling fan for any room is important otherwise it won’t cool your room, which is the reason you installed it. As a rule, the bigger the room, the bigger the fan needs to be. Each manufacturer has various recommendations. Plus the shape of your room, the amount of windows, furniture placement and how cool you want it to be are factors in determining the size.

The American Lighting Association offers these general guidelines. Rooms as big as 75 square feet should have a 29-36-inch fan. Medium-sized rooms as big as 144 square feet should have 36-42-inch fans. For rooms as big as 225 square feet you’d want a fan that is 50-54 inches; anything bigger and you should look for a 60-inch fan or consider using two fans.

2. What size downrod should I use?

Most fans come with a standard downrod of 3-5 inches, but larger lengths can be purchased if you have a higher ceiling. In general, you want to mount the fan 8-9 feet off the floor. For ceilings more than 15 feet, look for a fan that is specifically designed for that height. Manufacturers do make more powerful and sturdy fans for tall ceilings.

If the price is more than you budgeted, consider a decorative standing fan. You’d really only be able to run a standard fan on the low speed so that the fan maintains some stability. If you decide to mount it high, I’ve found that it doesn’t give you the air circulation you need to cool the room. It’s there for more decorative purposes.

If you have a ceiling less than 8 feet, consider a hugger or low-profile fan that mounts directly onto the ceiling. It will not move as much air as a regular fan because it is closer to the ceiling, but it will still make a difference in your room.

3. Do I have to match the exact finish on the fan to my room?

No, it doesn’t have to match, but the style as well as the finish on the housing and blades should coordinate with your room’s décor. Ceiling fans are a very visible item in your room and have really become more of a design element versus just a functional appliance. So if you have a contemporary style, look for a brushed nickel, steel, pewter or chrome housing with wood-colored blades that are similar to your woods. They also have stainless blades, which are fun.

If you have a traditional style, consider polished and antique brass, or even oil-rubbed bronze for the housing with a dark-wood blade. You can see that the stainless wouldn’t work in a traditional setting or polished brass in contemporary.

4. What kind of light fixture should I use and do I need one?

You don’t have to have a light kit on your fan, but I feel there can never be enough light and most people don’t have enough. The light kit on a ceiling fan is used more as general lighting versus a specific function, except when it’s over a table or work area. The light kit should match the style of your fan and room.

Personally I like the bowl-style light since I don’t like to see the bulbs. A simple bowl light kit can be used in any style décor, whereas you do have to be selective with glass shades since most have a distinctive style, leaning more traditional and country.

If you have a high ceiling, look for a fan that also has an uplight; it adds a nice accent effect.

5. What direction should my fan spin?

Although this is not a decorating question, it’s a good one. If you want to cool down the room, the fan needs to run in a counterclockwise direction. This forces the air down, giving you a cooler feeling from what is called “the wind chill effect,” which can actually make you feel 8 degrees Fahrenheit cooler. The faster the speed, the cooler you’ll feel.

And yes, you can use your ceiling fans in the winter as the reverse direction will pull cool air up to the ceiling, mixing it with your warmer air and distributing it back down into the room. Will it heat up your room? Probably not, but it will take the chill out.

Happy summer and stay cool.

What is the difference between a California and an Eastern king?

A California, aka Cal or a Western king is 72 inches wide by 84 inches long and an Eastern king, aka standard king, is 76-78 inches wide by 80 inches long.

How high do I hang a chandelier over a dining table?

The normal height to hang a chandelier over a table is 36-42 inches.

How long are dust ruffles or bed skirts?

The standard length of a dust ruffle that you buy in the store is going to be 14 inches long, although some manufacturers are now making ones 16 inches long to accommodate high-profile bed frames and box springs.

If you need a longer one, you can have it custom made or add to the length of a store-bought one. If the one you bought is too long, you can have it shortened or pull it up and pin it to your box spring with safety pins. That’s a little trick I do in models.

How many decorative pillows do I need on my bed?

For a king-sized bed I use two king shams or three Euro shams, two queen shams and three decorative pillows.

For a queen-sized bed, I use two queen shams, two standard shams and three decorative pillows. Personally, I like at least three to four layers of decorative pillows. Of course you can add or subtract to your liking.

How do I know where to start and stop my paint?

It’s easy to paint a single room, but when looking at the open areas it can get tricky. So, I always try to stop paint in an inside corner. It is really hard to get a straight line on the rounded outside edges of your walls because, when textured, even with painters tape it can seep hrough.

How do I update my bathroom without spending a fortune?

If your cabinets, counter and floor are in good shape, a new faucet, light fixture and cabinet hardware will make a big difference for less than $200.

What size bar stools should I buy?

If your counter is 38 inches or lower buy a counter stool. If it is higher than 38 inches buy a bar stool.

How many different fabrics can I have in a room?

It really all depends upon how many you are comfortable with, but I like at least three different patterns. To make it simple, repeat the colors in each fabric, but don’t have the same amount of color in each fabric. Use a mix of pattern sizes: large, medium and small, such as a large floral, check plaid or stripe and then a small geometric or another floral.

Where do I start when hanging a family photo gallery?

Start with separating the pictures between color and black and white and hang as two different galleries. Determine how large you want the gallery and think of it like a picture frame. Start with your four corners and keep the sides in line with each other. Now think of it as a jigsaw puzzle and place the rest of the pieces inside. Do not go outside the frame you’ll create. Just like a framed piece of art, the entire image should be inside the frame.

How much paint do I need?

Most paint cans tell you how much area they cover. Normally, one gallon can cover between 200-400 square feet, depending on the color you’re covering, the color you’re using and the type on paint on the wall.

If you’re covering a dark color with a lighter color, one gallon will cover less. If you’re putting dark over light, it might go a little further. If you have flat paint on the walls, they will absorb more paint than if you were covering a satin or semigloss finish.

If in doubt, buy more as you’ll want some for touch-ups.

Do I have to have matching finishes on all of my hardware, faucets and light fixtures in my house?

No, everything does not have to match and can be very expensive if you’re updating them and want a new finish. To keep it easy and simple, use the same finish on all of the doors. Use the same finish on your faucets and light fixtures in the kitchen and each bath, but they don’t have to be the same in every bath. I have black in my master bathroom and brushed satin in the others.

How high do I hang window treatments?

I like to hang them as high as possible as that makes the window appear larger. The main thing is that you need to cover is the top window frame of your window.

I find that if the bottom of the treatment is hung 6 inches into the window, it’s sufficient. If you have shades that you pull up off your window, you need to take their stacking height into consideration. They should be covered when pulled up so you might have to hang your treatment further down into the window.