First impressions do matter. This beautiful Downers Grove home had such an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, but the entry into the home was lacking. We took the beautiful bones and added to the character to brighten and add function to the space. By replacing the lighting, brightening the walls, and adding comfortable furniture, the first impression of this home is now welcoming and inviting.

Loads of custom cabinets around the built-in desk unit provide plenty of room for stashing away business matters when this soft and uncluttered home office does double duty as an extra guest bedroom.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

No matter your style of entertaining or your family’s use of the space, we will transform your living room just for you that is comfortable, inviting, and timeless.

The basement is a perfect space that could be transformed into a warm and welcoming area for your family and friends to enjoy. The beautiful paintings on the wall together with the exquisite furniture make this basement elegant and tasteful and the home karaoke system installed in one of the rooms brings joy and happiness to the whole family, no matter the singing skills.

Downsizing. It is an idealistic word for anyone that has more space than they need. It means less cleaning and maintenance costs, access to more culturally rich areas and a shrinking carbon footprint. What is one demographic that has been at the forefront of downsizing? Empty nesters. Visualizing how to actually taking the step to make this change is not easy for everyone, however. Some people have reservations: Where will kids and grandkids stay when they visit? Where can I have my own space to escape to? What about the home office? Taylor Morrison and Hanley Wood teamed up to create the NEXTadventure Home in Orlando, Florida. They set out to answer those questions and ease those doubts. The home features a flex room with transforming furniture. The Giro desk swings out to provide a work surface. The Nuovoliola wall bed provides a sofa during the day and a bed at night. The space also uses plenty of shelving to stay organized. Architect Deryl Patterson of Housing Design Matters was behind the NEXTadventure Home and wrote about her design process for Builder Magazine. Interior Design by Lita Dirks & Co

A main transitional great room is perfect for home entertainment, directing guest flow from dinner to lounging in a matter of steps.
Inspiration for a modern living room remodel in San Diego

This is an urban condo with a young couple who were starting out. They loved the rustic mountains and colour so we combined the two to come up with a great space. We had limited size to work with and needed to combine a dining with a living space. We kept things compact as a result as every inch mattered!

https://pipafineart.com/pages/california-dreamin-photorealistic-coastal-digital-artwork-prints-and-backgrounds This captivating photorealistic digital artwork, "California Dreamin'," transports you to a vibrant coastal sunset, rendered with breathtaking detail that blurs the line between painting and photograph. The scene is dominated by the expansive ocean, with powerful waves crashing onto a sandy shore in the foreground. The foam of the receding wave nearest to you is particularly striking, catching the golden light of the setting sun and glowing with an ethereal luminescence. The water itself, further out, transitions from a rich turquoise closer to the shore to deeper blues where the waves are building. Dynamic splashes and whitecaps convey the raw energy of the sea, inviting you to almost hear the roar of the surf. The horizon is a dramatic interplay of light and color. The sun, a brilliant orb of intense orange and yellow, is perfectly positioned, casting a dazzling reflection across the water's surface that stretches towards you. Above the horizon, the sky is a masterpiece of atmospheric beauty. Large, voluminous clouds are painted with fiery oranges and deep reds where they catch the direct sunlight, transitioning to soft blues and grays as they stretch towards the upper edges of the frame. This dramatic cloudscape adds immense depth and mood to the artwork, creating a sense of both grandeur and peacefulness. The meticulous attention to light, from the shimmering reflections on the water to the radiant glow filtering through the clouds, is a hallmark of this digital artwork's photorealistic quality. The overall composition balances the dynamic motion of the waves with the serene beauty of the sunset, creating a visually rich and emotionally evocative piece. "California Dreamin'" is exceptionally versatile and would enhance a variety of decorating styles. Its natural subject matter and vibrant yet calming color palette make it an ideal fit for Coastal or Beach House decor, instantly transforming a room into a serene seaside retreat. For Bohemian interiors, its dramatic colors and natural theme resonate with an adventurous spirit and eclectic charm. In Modern or Contemporary settings, the artwork's clean lines and striking visual impact can serve as a powerful focal point, adding a burst of color and organic form. Even in Transitional or Eclectic spaces, it provides a beautiful balance, blending classic beauty with a contemporary feel. The artwork's ability to evoke relaxation and wonder makes it a fantastic addition to numerous rooms. It would be a magnificent centerpiece in a Living Room, particularly over a sofa or fireplace, where its expansive view could invite conversation and contemplation. In a Bedroom, its tranquil yet dynamic energy could foster a sense of peace and inspiration, perfect for unwinding. For a Home Office or Study, "California Dreamin'" offers a captivating visual escape, providing a refreshing backdrop that promotes calm and creativity. It could also make a striking first impression in a Hallway or Entryway, welcoming guests with its breathtaking beauty.

Size matters, and Pavon is packing plenty of seating. But thanks to its corner style, it’ll fit snugly in your room without overpowering the space. And here's an amazing surprise-this large corner sofa features bookshelves and side table with one drawer.This fantastic addition creates maximum comfort and modern layout. It will match easily to any scheme.

This is an urban condo with a young couple who were starting out. They loved the rustic mountains and colour so we combined the two to come up with a great space. We had limited size to work with and needed to combine a dining with a living space. We kept things compact as a result as every inch mattered!

The basement is a perfect space that could be transformed into a warm and welcoming area for your family and friends to enjoy. The beautiful paintings on the wall together with the exquisite furniture make this basement elegant and tasteful and the home karaoke system installed in one of the rooms brings joy and happiness to the whole family, no matter the singing skills.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

The basement is a perfect space that could be transformed into a warm and welcoming area for your family and friends to enjoy. The beautiful paintings on the wall together with the exquisite furniture make this basement elegant and tasteful and the home karaoke system installed in one of the rooms brings joy and happiness to the whole family, no matter the singing skills.

Anchored by a neutral-colored rug, this room is built around reclining high-backed sofas that ensure you'll find a comfortable seat - no matter where you sit.

This is an urban condo with a young couple who were starting out. They loved the rustic mountains and colour so we combined the two to come up with a great space. We had limited size to work with and needed to combine a dining with a living space. We kept things compact as a result as every inch mattered!

Known for DESIGNING LIFESTYLES & creating thoughtful interiors, LMB interiors works with clients on all phases of remodeling, historic renovations, design & decor of homes. Serving the Tampa Bay area for more than a decade, Lynne creates custom interiors that both accommodate and enhance her clients lifestyles. The hallmark of Lynne's approach to design is an expertly balanced combination of texture, color & furnishings. No matter the style her finished spaces are sophisticated, comfortable and timeless.

Designed By: Richard Bustos Photos By: Chad Mellon It is practically unheard of in interior design—that, in a matter of four hours, the majority of furnishings, accessories, lighting and artwork could be selected for an entire 5,000-square-foot home. But that was exactly the story for Cantoni designer Richard Bustos and his clients, Karen and Mike Moran. The couple, who had purchased and were in the midst of gutting a home on the water in Newport Beach, California, knew what they wanted. Combined with Richard’s design assistance, it was a match made for swift decision-making and the resulting beautifully neutral, modern space. “We went into Cantoni in Irvine and fell in love with it—it was everything we liked,” Karen says. “Richard had the same vision we did, and we told him what we wanted, and he would direct us. He was on the same level.” Even more surprising: they selected the furnishings before the home’s bones were even complete. They had wanted a more contemporary vibe to capitalize on the expansive bay views and were in the midst of ripping out low ceilings and outdated spaces. “We wanted modern warmth,” Karen says. “Cantoni furniture was the perfect fit.” After their initial meeting, Richard met with the couple several times to take measurements and ensure pieces would fit. And they did—with elegant cohesion. In the living room, they leaned heavily on the Fashion Affair collection by Malerba, which is exclusive to Cantoni in the U.S. He flanked the Fashion Affair sofa in ivory leather with the Fashion Affair club chairs in taupe leather and the ivory Viera area rug to create a sumptuous textural mix. In the center, he placed the brown-glossed Fashion Affair low cocktail table and Fashion Affair occasional table for ease of entertaining and conversation. A punch of glamour came by way of a set of Ravi table lamps in gold-glazed porcelain set on special-ordered Fashion Affair side tables. The Harmony floor sculpture in black stone and capiz shell was brought in for added interest. “Because of the grand scale of the living room—with high ceilings and numerous windows overlooking the water—the pieces in the space had to have more substance,” Richard says. “They are heavier-scaled than traditional modern furnishings, and in neutral tones to allow the architectural elements, such as a glass staircase and elevator, to be the main focal point.” The trio settled on the Fashion Affair extension table in brown gloss with a bronze metal arc base in the formal dining area, and flanked it with eight Arcadia high-back chairs. “We like to have Sunday dinners with our large family, and now we finally have a big dining-room table,” Karen says. The master bedroom also affords bay views, and they again leaned heavily on neutral tones with the M Place California-king bed with chrome accents, the M Place nightstand with M Place table lamps, the M Place bench, Natuzzi’s Anteprima chair and a Scoop accent table. “They were fun, happy, cool people to work with,” Richard says. One of the couple’s favorite spaces—the family room—features a remote-controlled, drop-down projection screen. For comfortable viewing, Richard paired the Milano sectional (with a power recliner) with the Sushi round cocktail table, the Lambrea accent table, and a Ravi table lamp in a gold metallic snakeskin pattern. “Richard was wonderful, was on top of it, and was a great asset to our team,” Karen says. Mike agrees. “Richard was a dedicated professional,” he says. “He spent hours walking us through Cantoni making suggestions, measuring, and offering advice on what would and wouldn’t work. Cantoni furniture was a natural fit.”

In home selling, colour matters. Our team will help you choose the best colours to work with your home’s fixed elements and help you neutralize your living spaces through paint and/or design to broaden your home’s appeal and ensure that buyers’ eyes are drawn to your home’s selling features. Photo Credits: Four Corners Home Solutions