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camilani3

Designers opinion in need!!!

10 years ago
We recently moved to our new home. It took us 2 yrs to build from ground up, and finally we're in!!! We thought of everything while building it but never thought about decoration. I've always knew that I wanted was a fresh clean look, but never had an idea in mind until I began purchasing furniture little by little. It's been over a month since I'm feeling kinda stuck with decoration, and would love your opinion to move forward. I have no idea what color of rug to buy, side tables, lamps, art, etc etc... I'm leaning toward traditional decoration with a small kick of modern. Let me know what you think :) thank you and I appreciate your help!

Comments (81)

  • 10 years ago

    what are the measurements between your sconces and from mantel to top of outlet for light?

    I suggested a mirror because the space seemed so narrow, but that may be an illusion.

  • 10 years ago

    Oh, I think chartreuse would be a gorgeous accent!

  • 10 years ago
    Beautiful! I would remove the sconces in order to fully take advantage of the space for a large artwork.
  • 10 years ago
    Oh my gosh oh my gosh!!! Mark! That looks stunning!!!!! Wow!!!!! I'm speechless!!!!
  • 10 years ago

    Well done Mark, you've outdone yourself.

  • 10 years ago

    I'm not a chartreuse guy, but I think the medium blue looks terrific!

  • 10 years ago

    the more I look at your room, the more I see it puts to shame our examples.

    I love the RH rugs but find them very pricey.

    Pick at least one art piece before the rug for color continuity unless you keep the rug neutral.

  • PRO
    10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    I like a bunch of the rugs posted but your home is too high end for machine made rugs. I'd invest in a fine Persian rug (a Tabriz would look really good in your space). Pick a light yet warm colored one like this one in your living area. If you live in a large city like NYC or LA, you should be able to find a lot of good options. This goes well with your transitional style and you can get any kind of art to go with it.

  • 10 years ago
    Camilani3, congratulations on your stunning new home! You have done such a great job ! The lighting is lovely, the dramatic ceiling beams, the wonderful built ins! All gorgeous ,as well as your furniture. An all white room an be a bit intimidating and you should take your time. I am posting some pics of some I like; hope they inspire. I'm sure you've looked at so many already! I like how these have layered textures and soft patterns, some shiny surfaces( like your table) for interest. Your room is serene and sophisticated, I would treat it with a gentle touch.
  • 10 years ago
    All you need between your chairs is a garden stool. Someplace to put your drink;)
  • 10 years ago

    I think I'd forego any additional tables. It appears you have a perfect arrangement where the coffee table works nicely for every seat. I might separate the chairs just a tad, but I wouldn't add a table. I'd focus on a rug choice and special art for above the fireplace. After that, I'd evaluate and see how it's feeling. I'd hate to see this pretty room get any unnecessary furniture or see it get cluttered at all.

  • 10 years ago
    I found a terrific rug that 100 % wool, looks like Rh $3000 rug but cost only $600! Overstock made me Very happy...
  • 10 years ago
    Thank you! I'll definitely start testing in new rugs, and art and will post pictures so you can see how it's turning out... You all got me very excited and motivated with all you ideas! It's a beautiful (still not to hot) day here in Phoenix, Az and will be heading out to start browsing around, and hopefully find something. I'm in no rush at all, I will take my time in order to make great decisions :)
    I'm leaning towards neutral colors (grays, beiges, pale blues) something that will look soft. Loved Mark's ideas though! I've never thought about adding those colors in, but he's vision gave me a lot to think about :) thanks again @Mark! And many many thanks to all of you! I will definitely take advantage from all your advice!
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    These photos below contain a few accessories to add if you go with blue, yellow, and gold as accents in your room. Take note of the lamps specifically.

    Lovely Georgia Home · More Info

    Lovely Georgia Home · More Info

    Terminus Place · More Info

  • 10 years ago

    - There is nothing wrong with a plain white space, but you have to use that canvas properly and make the best of it. I would start by changing the fact that the only present color is blue, and just in few cushions. Remember that this is a living area and not the interior or a yacht, so we have to make it cozier and with a warmer look, regardless of the interior style you might want to adopt.
    Don't be afraid of adding furniture and decoration pieces in different colors, because the room is not only white but also very tall, so the sensation of spaciousness is fully guaranteed. However, I wouldn't go too crazy with the color selection and I'd rather stay with 3 or 4 colors and play with the tones; your house is beautiful and you should keep the classical touch.

    - The chandeliers are very nice so I wouldn't change them. However, if you could paint them in bronze or ocher they would stand out a lot more, as you don't get any contrast by overlaying white on white.

    - I like the shape of the two white couches, so I wouldn't toss them, as buying a couple of new sofas always represents some considerable expenses. But white is dangerous... no place for stains! white furniture look nice on magazines, but it is not the most family-friendly option. Having said this, I would change the armchairs and go for a radical change! a bold color! a contemporary/edgy style!

    - I agree with the idea of placing a big abstract painting on top of the fireplace (and remove the two little wall chandeliers). If you put a mirror at the height of a person's sight, you will get the sensation of widening the space better than placing it on a high level; In this case, the person would have to be far enough from the plane to actually get the feeling... otherwise it's pointless because you don't get to see the reflection it gives, and it's obvious that the area immediate to your fireplace is to be seated.
    If you want to put a beautiful ancient mirror somewhere, I would try to find another spot for it... maybe on the opposite wall, standing on top of a low, dark wooden console. I can see that you have enough space between this wall and the sitting area, so it's perfect for having a low piece of furniture where to have a flower arrangement, leave the keys, and look at yourself on the mirror.

  • 10 years ago
    Gorgeous home. I was struck by how beautiful and serene the first picture example is in Lynartist's post. Absolutely stay with soft colors. Have fun in your search. Good luck.
  • PRO
    10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    You could do art over the FP, but in this case, I also think a mirror might be a good solution. Then you could place the art at the opposite end of the room. Here's how the art might appear....................GreatBigCanvas.com

    Here is a possible mirror style that might be unique with antique glass


    I think this oyster shell mirror could really add something special to the room.




  • 10 years ago

    Stay with your own great taste in items you add. Yours are so much better than most that have been suggested. Sorry. Go to a rug specialty store with your designer. One that is open only 'to the trade'. choose several that appeal to you & have them brought into your home to see if they are right. This is truly the only way to select a rug. Go Persian, Oriental & go with wool. You will not be sorry. Shop also for antique rugs as well.

    Start with the rugs, then go to the dining room setup. lastly choose your art & accessories to compliment what you have already in the room.

  • 10 years ago

    Do not hurry. You have a beautiful home & you should not expect to furnish it in a few months. Great taste is developed over many years. Add, edit & change as you go. Most of all buy things that you will love.

  • 10 years ago

    Check for a tapestry to install above the fireplace. Go high with it.

  • 10 years ago

    So may i ask whAT THIS IS FOR?

  • 10 years ago
    Some inspiration, love the striped area rugs
  • 10 years ago
    Love it!!! But most of all love how I'm inspired by you all!! I'm making and ideabook with all these pictures! Thanks to this, I now know what direction to take :)
  • 10 years ago
    You have nice blue pillows, so go look at rugs that are mostly blue or have significant blue in the design. The rug should be large enough that all the furniture pieces have their front feet on the rug (or all sit fully on the rug). Then hang some art that pleases you. Tables can be wood or metal, and they don't all need to match, just complement each other. A couple of lamps and some accessories should finish it off. If you come across a piece of painted furniture (cabinet or table) you love, don't be afraid to add it if the color works.
  • 10 years ago

    I like the simplicity of the art Beverly put above your fireplace - very nice!

  • 10 years ago

    I agree w/ Ann re Beverly's art. My S-i-L lived in gated community in Tucson. Her huge LR had high cathedral ceilings. She had rectangular mirror similar to Beverly's but not over fireplace. It was stunning, but w/ that much glass & metal frame, it was heavy, so heavy she didn't want to move it & sold it w/ house. It was a definite feature.

  • PRO
    10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    Opinion of one? Search Houzz for designers in your area. Think about the total feel you would like throughout your new home, put together an idea book right here on Houzz. Then call on some pro help to carry out the great look you began when you built.

    One person you click with, is invaluable in achieving a great cohesive look that suits your style at your own pace. You'll save money, and end with a result you can love for a long time.

  • 10 years ago

    Jan Moyer took the words out of my mouth. I would do just that, if I were in your shoes.

    Your house is stunning. Congratulations! I wish you many happy years in it.

  • 10 years ago
    Thank you all again, I'm taking in and appreciating every single advice, comment that you have shared with me. Thanks for your expert opinion, it definitely helped me to have a better idea. I want to give that classy, sophisticated look with a transitional twist to both exterior and interior. I would like to share with you some pictures of my home, That way you can get an idea of what I'm trying to achieve (kitchen and nook are right next to the living room area)
    I'll definitely look in to hiring a PRO to help me put all the pieces together, cause I know it can get overwhelming when it comes to decoration.
  • 10 years ago

    @VRA interiors re:

    - I like the shape of the two white couches, so I wouldn't toss them, as buying a couple of new sofas always represents some considerable expenses. But white is dangerous... no place for stains! white furniture look nice on magazines, but it is not the most family-friendly option. Having said this, I would change the armchairs and go for a radical change! a bold color! a contemporary/edgy style!

    I just ordered white sunbrella on a Hickory Chair sofa. It is bleachable and coffee can just be wiped off with a tissue. These new fabrics are superb. I think the OP know enough about her family's lifestyle to pull this off. My own mom pulled off a champagne colored country French sofa when I was barely in my teens.

    I am now a slob because of neurological problems, but the sunbrella performance convinced me to go for white. It can cost as much as silk. The fabric I chose was one grade down from silk.

    I would not remove a thing in this room with the possible exception of the fireplace sconces which might not leave enough room for art.

    I might also lower the chandeliers a bit.

    Camilani just needs to get her bearings and think through things a bit before she takes the next step. Art should speak to the heart. We can't really do anything about that unless a poster announces a preference, then we can help look.


  • 10 years ago


    15 x 18" Sea Fans · More Info


    Sea Fans · More Info

  • 10 years ago
    Ramona, are those from the Karen Robertson collection? I used to stop by her booth at Highpoint and they are much lovelier in real life!
  • 10 years ago
    Camilani3, your home is truly fabulous! I hope you do find a pro you can connect with because this is such a special place. Wishing you many happy years here.
  • 10 years ago

    I agree a local pro could help you make those final decisions. Frankly, you've done a great job so far and have a great eye for design. The final choices with a "friend" on site will help you feel great about your already good design sense. Hire a designer so you will good about your installations that are costly and permanent.

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Not sure you have enough work for a Pro. Most everything is done. Just the details, and though they take some time, what's the rush? You're in the house and it functions. I think you are doing a fine job, and probably need to take a breath and then jump back in.

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Ah Camilani3 now I see the eucalyptus trees around your house!

    You have exquisite taste. I'm sure you'll find the right accessories to match your home. Keep us posted with whatever you decide. You're doing better than a lot of pros on this site (with all due respect to the pros :) )

  • 10 years ago

    I'm not really seeing any need for a pro either as I think it's coming along just great!

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Katherine Sharp...we came across the same rug. I chose it because, not only is the pattern and color beautiful, but the rug is rich ($$$) and this room deserves the best.


    Shibori Area Rug, Rectangle, Blue-White, 8'x11' · More Info

  • 10 years ago
    Thank you! It's been a wonderful ride building and designing our home. So many ideas, so many decisions, but sometimes it gets to a point of exhaustion and I second guess my instincts, that's when I come in and ask for opinions. And you are right @BeverlyFLADeziner, I'm not in a rush at all, I'm actually taking this very slowly and enjoying every second of it, but love to see your personal opinions or ideas and head in the right direction. I've been doing this for mayor and crucial decisions since I began building my house, and I feel that it all requires extra hands to bring in more thoughts. Not being a professional, I guess it puts me in that spot. You've all been so helpful, and I appreciate this very, very much :)
  • 10 years ago
    In love with that rug! @JudyG Designs
  • 10 years ago
    Look, Shoa Gallery, this is the eucalyptus tree that I was telling you about...it,s right outside my front door. I would love to have one of your art pieces hanging inside my home. You'll hear from me soon :)
  • 10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    @lynartist yes, those are Karen Robertson and her catalog alone is a feast.

  • 10 years ago

    I can't wait to see what Shoa Gallery comes up with for your home! Since it will be custom, please think carefully about the perfect size. Assuming it will be over your fireplace, maybe you could tape the ideal size on the wall first to be sure.

  • 10 years ago

    That rug is certainly a great price!

  • 10 years ago
    I doubt like saying this but in lost
  • PRO
    10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    Camilani3 beautiful tree! I love the texture and color variations in eucalyptus tree trunks. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Have a great weekend.

  • 10 years ago
    Hello all;
    Need help with great paint colors for basement walls and ceilings. I would like an accent wall or two. Inspiration below. Open to suggestions.
    No photos as our basement is a blank slate.
    **No windows. At drywall stage. Great ceiling pot lights throughout.
    I bought furniture for the space last Sept, but in storage. Sooo. Space will be used for watching TV, separate laundry room, a new bathroom and flex.
    Current in storage and will go in room: Couch deep chocolate brown leather L; Two chairs same brushed soft ?chenille upholstery grey-blue (but more grey). Both with dark brown legs.
    We are planning on hard wood or laminate throughout.
    Thanks for any insight.
  • 10 years ago
    Omg. Excuse my error here. I will move it.
  • 10 years ago

    I would put a few, large-scale, very colorful, modern abstract paintings on the walls. Nothing small scale. The chandelier needs some color of some sort, such as a wrap, hanging ornamentation or paint. I would toss all geometric designs as your beautiful windows add plenty of that. You can find some very nice, large-size abstracts on eBay. As for carpet, I would consider something organic such as sisal. I would stay away from blues or other cool colors. Your white walls already have enough of that.

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