Tips from David Hedgepeth

Faux Foliage Tips

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 16:10:54 GMT

Ready to transition your home to fall? Maybe you don’t use many seasonal specific decor items, but there’s always a spot in for foliage! On the dining table, on a entry table, console or dresser, on your mantel, nightstand, on the kitchen counter…you can always find a place for a fall focal point! While it can be wonderful to forage out in nature, it’s totally fine to use faux foliage and a few stems is all you need.

1. Mix real and faux. No one needs to know it’s not all real. It can be difficult to tell the difference at a glance so let it be your secret.

2. Mix and match! Select a few faux seasonal statement stems that you can mix in with other foliage. This can help your basic arrangements go farther and give you a variety of shapes, colors and flowers to play with all year round. Keep less seasonal specific blooms or branches to cut down on the amount of items you need to store.

3. Bend the branches and leaves so they feel more relaxed and organic!

4. Vary the stem heights in the vase give it a more interesting shape.

5. Create an airy arrangement, leaving breathing room for a simpler look.

6. Pack a visual punch by using just one type of foliage. Use unique containers for your foliage to make a one-of-a-kind statement!

7. Fill the bottom of glass vessels with rocks for more interest.

8. You can use water in the bottom of a glass vase to make faux look more realistic!

Lessons on, Why Quartz Countertops?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 14:51:33 GMT

In the war of countertop materials, quartz countertops have risen up through the ranks, and are now the most popular option out there — beating out granite, marble and other materials.

Lesson #4 - How to Clean Quartz Countertops -Quartz countertops are non-porous, which means they don't absorb bacteria, mold and mildew — not to mention things like red wine. So spill away! Cleaning is straightforward. Use only soap and water, and maybe some mild detergent. (Always check your manufacturer's cleaning and maintenance guide before you use different cleaning products, just to make sure the quartz won't react adversely to a particular chemical.

Lesson #5 - Quartz Countertop Pros and Cons

• Technology means that quartz countertops are consistently and uniformly produced, so you know exactly what you are getting when you buy it.

• Quartz's main selling point is durability. It will last for years without staining or breaking down, and requires little to no maintenance. It's also very easy to clean.

• Because it's made from little leftover bits of mineral, versus mined in whole slabs and shipped around the world, quartz countertops are considered a good environmental choice.

• One drawback is the upfront cost: it's one of the more expensive materials out there. However, quartz is extremely popular these days, which can be a huge selling point when you put your home on the market.

• Current technology limits the quartz countertop slab sizes. If you want an oversized island, for example, you might have to choose a different material. However, seams are less visible on quartz countertops than other materials.

Lesson #6 - Quartz Countertops vs. Granite/Marble - Granite/Marble was the go-to countertop for years, but has recently fallen into second place, leaving people to wonder which is better. Granite/Marble is an all-natural stone that's quarried: no two slabs are alike, and there are endless variations for you to choose from. It's also can be more affordable than quartz. Like quartz, granite/marble is highly durable, although it is porous and susceptible to stains, and therefore requires periodic sealing after the initial installation.

Lessons on, Why Quartz Countertops?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 20:55:23 GMT

In the war of countertop materials, quartz countertops have risen up through the ranks, and are now the most popular option out there — beating out granite, marble and other materials. What Is Quartz? - Unlike granite or marble, this product aren't pure natural stone. They're a special blend of (over 90%) ground up quartz , which is mixed with a binder of resin or polymers. Pigment is added for color and pattern. Once blended, everything is then poured into a mold to form pressed slabs of engineered stone, which are cured before heading off to get cut according to your countertop specifications. Because this is a man-made product, it is also very predictable. Appearance is uniform throughout each slab, and manufacturers can guarantee quality and predictable performance.

Lesson #1 - Quartz Countertops Colors - Although white and grey are probably the most popular, endless colors are available. Beyond color, new patterns also mimic the look of natural substances with subtle veins and striations — which gives the material some movement and makes it feel more real. There are also now more finishes to consider, in addition to the smooth and shiny quartz you can achieve a softer appearance — with honed or suede-like finishes — that have a brushed feel.

Lesson #2 - How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost - Unfortunately, quartz countertops aren't a budget kitchen material, and can be a significant chunk of your remodeling budget. They run between $60-100 plus per square foot, including installation.

Lesson #3 - Durability - If you want the look, but not the maintenance, of natural materials like soapstone or marble, quartz countertops are an attractive alternative. Its hardness makes it a good work surface, and one of the most durable and low-maintenance options you can buy. Unlike other materials, it resists etching, stains, cracks and chips. More good news: the resin that binds the quartz during manufacturing already adds protection, so there's no need to initially seal the surface, or maintain by resealing in the future. It's good to know, however, that quartz countertops don't like high heat. You should never put scalding pots and hot pans directly on the countertop: always use a trivet instead.

The Secret to Decorating With Throw Pillows

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 21:52:58 GMT

Decorating with throw pillows may seem like a small part of the design process, but that couldn't be further from the truth. They are the best way elevate a house to a home. Even though they are soft and comfortable, they are not all fluff. When it comes to living room seating, hallway benches, and pretty much anything in the bedroom, adding a throw pillow will pack a ton of punch and bring out the subtle design features of the space.

PICK AN ANCHOR COLOR: If there's a piece of furniture in your room that brings in a pop of color, make sure the rest of the room highlights it without outshining it.

MIX AND MATCH PRINTS: By mixing and matching styles and prints, you'll elevate the intrigue to keep the eye engaged.

THINK ABOUT SYMMETRY: Once you've got all the right pillows, you should also spend some time thinking about how you'd like to display them to get the most out of their potential. If you like the look of asymmetry, try an arrangement that looks more random and effortless.

STAY NEUTRAL:. If bright colors overwhelm you or you simply resonate with neutrals more, you can still allow your personality to show through with things like texture, material and shape.

EXPERIMENT WITH TEXTURE: Its fun texture makes it the perfect way to achieve a wild aesthetic outside of color, print, and shape elements.

Looking for the perfect chair?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 18:15:32 GMT

Perfect chair for that person who wants a higher back to rest their head.

Better yet, can be ordered in your fabric selection and be stationary, swivel, or rock.

Ineffective, Out of Date Cleaning Staples You Need to Replace ASAP, part 5

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 19:27:22 GMT

We depend on our cleaning supplies to keep our homes fresh and clean, there’s a chance you’re hanging onto plenty that are no longer useful.

String Mops - String-mops are inefficient, unsanitary, and obsolete because most floors should not be wet-mopped anymore anyway, they should be vacuumed, dry-dusted, then damp-mopped by spraying the cleaner directly on the floor and immediately polished clean. The new gold standard for floor mops is one with microfiber strands, or a spray mop with a machine-washable cleaning pad.

Ineffective, Out of Date Cleaning Staples You Need to Replace ASAP, part 4

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 18:38:32 GMT

We depend on our cleaning supplies to keep our homes fresh and clean, there’s a chance you’re hanging onto plenty that are no longer useful.

Your Ancient Handheld Vacuum - Some handheld vacuums aren’t practical or sanitary. They are filled with old dust and debris and don’t do a very good job vacuuming up stuff.

Ineffective, Out of Date Cleaning Staples You Need to Replace ASAP, part 3

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 16:37:05 GMT

We depend on our cleaning supplies to keep our homes fresh and clean, there’s a chance you’re hanging onto plenty that are no longer useful.

Feather Dusters - Feather dusters and rainbow-colored dusters are outdated because they’re ineffective. Without a cleaner or polish, or something to cling to the dust, they’ll just move your dirt around. Use a Swiller style dusters for light dusting once a week, but for a good, effective deep clean use an all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth to trap dust and give your surfaces a nice shine.

Ineffective, Out of Date Cleaning Staples You Need to Replace ASAP, part 2

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 21:06:07 GMT

We depend on our cleaning supplies to keep our homes fresh and clean, there’s a chance you’re hanging onto plenty that are no longer useful.

Disinfectant Spray or Wipes More Than Two Years Old - Like it or not, if it’s been sitting under your sink for too long, your go-to disinfectant spray or wipes aren’t something you can count on. Disinfectant sprays are usually only good for one to two years max. If the smell is getting weaker, then it’s not effective as a disinfectant anymore.

Ineffective, Out of Date Cleaning Staples You Need to Replace ASAP

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 29 May 2020 18:28:47 GMT

We depend on our cleaning supplies to keep our homes fresh and clean, there’s a chance you’re hanging onto plenty that are no longer useful.

Hydrogen Peroxide - (especially if it’s been exposed to light)

Often used as a nontoxic disinfectant around the house, when stored incorrectly, hydrogen peroxide breaks down and loses its antibacterial properties when exposed to light for too long, that’s why it always comes in a dark bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place (in its original bottle) to ensure it stays potent and powerful. Even when stored properly, an opened bottle of hydrogen peroxide only maintains its effectiveness for six months to a year—it should indicate its shelf life on the label. After this time, the expired solution isn’t harmful, but it won’t be as effective at disinfecting as it used to.

Organizing Your Messy Bookshelves, part 2

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 19 May 2020 20:38:16 GMT

Here's some suggestions on how you can switch things around so the bookshelves are more functional, prettier, and easier to manage? And do it all on a budget!

Add Things That Aren’t Photos or Books - You need to add things to the shelves that aren’t just photos or books, remember you want the shelves to be warm and bright, filled with memories of your history. You can store and display unexpected items on bookshelves, using books as pedestals to accent and add interest to your collections. A favorite bowl (a wedding gift?) can be filled with those family/travel photos you had in miss matched frames. Souvenirs deserve to be out and about, so consider using them in the shelves.

Consider Groupings of Three & Small Vignettes - Grouping items by three (remember odd numbers) helps to add some symmetry to things. Another tip, move items around the shelves by creating little vignettes. Flipping 3-4 books horizontally and place a small accessory on top. Experiment with alternating items by groups of threes and twos, and ultimately created a better balance than your shelves have ever had before—not to mention it was a much more effective way to display some of your favorite things.

Be inspired to think differently about your bookshelves, even if I didn’t put every single tip to use. Sometimes reworking your bookshelves is as simple as starting from a blank canvass and placing things differently. Don’t spent the remainder of your quarantine waking up and feeling frustrated by the chaotic and cluttered appearance of your bookshelves.

All it takes, is one afternoon spent rearranging.

Organizing Your Messy Bookshelves, part 1

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 18 May 2020 16:03:54 GMT

If you have recently let go of the idea of the “perfect” room during the quarantine, the one spot in your home that can be “perfect” are your bookshelves. You know which ones I’m talking about. The shelves that hold the TV, the books, the photos, the children’s art projects, the dead plants, the travel souvenirs and the dust. Now that you are spending hours and days staying home, your bookshelves just don't looked quite right, it bothers you. How can you switch things around so the shelves are more functional, prettier, and easier to manage? And do it all on a budget!

First, Remove Everything - Start this process by removing everything that was already on the shelves. Cleaned out, you can now see more possibilities on the shelves and move forward.

Add Baskets - On the lower shelves think baskets, they can serve as any needed additional storage. This way the clutter always lands in baskets instead of piled up all over the shelves. Think decorative woven baskets without lids, because who are you kidding, no one will open lids to put away anything. So use open baskets and periodically take the time to toss anything that winds up in them and are no longer needed.

Greenery - Add a living touch, with a small plant in a pretty ceramic pot (travel souvenir?). Don’t have a green thumb? Look for realistic artificial stems, no watering.

Group Books More Thoughtfully - If you have a lot of books, you should probably consider passing some of them on, did someone say “Little Free Libraries”, to new homes. There are many varied thoughts about how to arrange your books, so go with what works best for you. Here are some suggestions; only using a few books on each shelf, grouping them by them in a balanced way, placing the spines inward can add a neutral look, or try arranging them by color. In the end, spines in or out, you need to decide if your books need to be handy for using or just for filler. Try placing the least used books on upper shelves and use the lower shelves for other special, display books - it will make your shelves more cohesive and connected.

Decluttering Tips For the Laundry Room

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:03:09 GMT

Laundry rooms are notoriously short on storage.

1. Go vertical. Maximize vertical space by installing adjustable wall shelves. A tension rod can be handy for hanging clothing to dry and you can wall-mount your iron and ironing board to maximize shelf space.

2. Decant detergent. Decant powdered detergent into clear jars with scoops so you can see when you're running low. Stain removers and liquid soap can be poured into olive oil jars with spouts for spill-proof pouring.

3. Pre-sort your clothes. "Save time by pre-sorting whites and darks in a divided laundry bin. Use a labeled tote in your closet for dry cleaning and repairs and a small bin is handy for tossing unmatched socks. If you don't find a mate within a month, it's safe to say 'adieu' to those solo socks.

Decluttering Tips For the Living Room

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 16:05:04 GMT

What do you do in your living room?

1. Organize for your life. "Think through how you want to use the space and what items you need to facilitate the activities you partake in often. If you want to spend time relaxing, reading and watching TV, make sure there are comfy pillows and blankets, well-stocked bookshelves, magazine holders, and a tray to corral remotes. Other items should be relocated or stored elsewhere.

2. Opt for stylish storage. There is no good reason to fill your living spaces with storage solutions that don't reflect your taste or style. Woven baskets are a much more stylish alternative to the plastic bins and poorly made storage cubbies.

Decluttering Tips For the Closet

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:33:44 GMT

The first step to having an organized closet is to let go of the superfluous. If your closet is stocked only with items that feel great and work for your lifestyle, getting dressed in the morning will be a piece of cake.

1. Your closet should reflect your life. Take some time to select the clothes that make sense for your weekly routine (work, fitness, events) and also fit and flatter your current body. Donate or consign the rest and make sure to keep a basket or tote bag accessible for storing donations as they arise.

2. Zone by usage. Keep everyday wardrobe staples visible for easy access and formal, seasonal, and occasional items in the back of the closet or on a high shelf.

3. Banish wire hangers. For a streamlined look, use uniform hangers and arranging hanging items by type, style, and color.

Decluttering Tips For the Bedroom

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 16:09:53 GMT

It is commonly said that making the bed sets the tone for the day—just as a streamlined, stylish space is a must to help you to rest and relax after a long day.

1. Nightstand Makeover. Clear your nightstand completely and wipe down for a fresh start. Relocate any unnecessary or misplaced items, and stock your nightstand drawer with only the essentials: reading glasses, current books or magazines, lip balm, hand cream, or anything else you like regular access to before sleep. Select a few pretty objects to style the surface of your nightstand.

2. Make Your Bed. Just by pulling your covers up and fluffing a few pillows, your room will look instantly more pulled together and polished.

Decluttering Tips For the Kitchen

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 16:32:48 GMT

At first glance, your kitchen should look clean and clear—just like a chef's kitchen.

1. Cut counter clutter. Take a few minutes to relocate what doesn't belong in the kitchen and make sure to assign a permanent home for items like mail or current work projects that get dumped on your counter and turn into stacks of clutter.

2. Edit your pantry. Give your pantry a clean slate by taking everything out, wiping down shelves, and eliminating any expired items. Once you've edited, take the time to group similar items together by type—pasta and grains, snacks and sweets. Once you have grouped everything by type, you can store items according to usage—items you use every day like breakfast cereal should be stored at arm's reach, while holiday baking items can be tucked away on a high shelf.

3. Streamline your storage. Airtight labeled jars create a clean, streamlined look, and they keep your snack and pantry items fresher for longer. Using clear jars maximizes space and also makes it easy to see when items need to be replenished.

Decluttering Tips For the Bathroom

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 16:09:05 GMT

Bathroom storage is generally quite limited, so it's important to not overstock your space.

1. Divide and conquer. Take everything out of the medicine cabinet, and clear out drawers and shelves so you can edit before you organize. Now that you have edited, you can relocate extra towels, occasional-use products, first aid, and medications into labeled bins in your linen closet. Drawer dividers or shallow bins will keep your toiletries and makeup organized in the bathroom."

2. Toss expired makeup, first-aid products and medications, as well as anything that looks past its prime or that you never use.

3. Hang it up. Hooks are handy for hanging bath and hand towels,obes, and even watches or jewelry for when you are showering or washing your face. Make sure to mount hooks at arm's reach for easy access.

Decluttering TipsFor the Entrance

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 15:25:15 GMT

Your homes entry is the first thing you see when you walk in the door after a busy day. It pays off to create a pretty and functional space.

1. Be curious about your clutter. Taking the time to examine what gets dumped in your entry, you can create an easy inventory of the items that require a storage solution. A typical list might include storage for bags and backpacks, jackets, dog leashes, shoes, mail, keys, and cell phones."

2. Have a landing station. A ceramic dish or tray on an entry piece is great for tossing keys, cell phones, mail and loose change.

3. Create storage for everything. Hooks work well for coats, dog leashes, and bags. Make sure the hooks are mounted at arm's reach for kids' backpacks and jackets so they can be responsible for their own things. Shoe shelves, cubbies, or labeled bins or baskets will do the trick if you are a no-shoe household.

Decluttering Tips

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 15:23:05 GMT

Decluttering Tips

1. Recognize that it's now time to declutter.

2. Make a plan. start your de-cluttering mission by organizing what you have to do by category. Make a list of categories like clothes, keepsakes, and kids' items, then tackle your list one category at a time. This will help keep the task from feeling too overwhelming.

3. Look at everything. Clear a space and spread out your belongings so you can decide what stays and what goes from each category.

4. Make definite yes and no piles. When sorting through categories of belongings, don't put anything away until you've gone through each and every item. Once you have definitive yes and no piles, you can move on and starting organizing.

5. Ask yourself if you love it. If you're struggling to sort an item into a yes or no pile, ask yourself if you love it and whether or not you actually use it. The only exception to this rule is if the piece has sentimental value. In that case, you can neatly store it in a labeled container or bin.

6. Donate, Resale, Give Away, Throw Away. Physically getting rid of clutter is an important part of organizing your home.

7. Everything has to have a home. Once you've gotten rid of everything you don't need or no longer want, organize your belongings so that each and every piece has a designated storage spot.

What does your home's interior say about you?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 22:06:51 GMT

Decorating is not an easy process. It requires objects that reflect the owner's character but also pieces that are timeless. It also needs to strike the right balance between traditional and modern. But above all, it requires a story.

Rules to follow by interior designer Patrick Sutton in his new book, Storied Interiors.

Tell a Story - A good interior is one that tells the story of its owners through time and space.

Understand Needs - It's like dating. Beyond a client’s taste in décor—to understand how they want to use the space and what makes them feel at home.

Use Personal Objects - Though many try to refrain from using clients' existing objects and items, embrace the objects—all the while ensuring that each piece will be coherent in the story that is trying to told. Also be clear, that if their personal object are wrong, tell them it doesn't work.

Mix Classic With Modern - A timeless interior is all about the tension between modern and traditional. Classic proportion never goes out of style, but inventive finishes or fixtures adds a bit of edge keeping design fresh and forward-thinking.

Choose the Right Materials - Where renovations are concerned, it's especially important to pick materials that will stand the test of time.

Don't Copy Others - Interior design is a deeply personal process, and one of the worst mistakes one can make when designing interiors is to be formulaic or trying to replicate something you've seen elsewhere. If the design is make about the designer or what you someone else do, then the work will be short-lived and fleeting.

Reinforce Your Story - A timeless interior starts with a unique storyline where every object works to support the same vision. Similarly, a bad interior often stems from a lack of vision.

Things You Should Be Doing to Reduce What You Own

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 19:28:23 GMT

Most of Your Stuff Is Worthless. The stuff you love the most, the stuff you think is so good you don’t use for fear of breaking it, has little to no resale value. From china, crystal, flatware, silver trays, serving pieces, tea sets, pianos and collectible figurines, to grandfather clocks and real pieces of craftsmanship furniture.

Why? Baby boomers have glutted the market with their castoffs, and millennials, don’t want it. Millennials hate both formal in-home entertaining. With looming student loans, they tend to rent and move often. Who wants to be constantly moving a piano from apartment to apartment?

And furniture? There’s no market for so-called “brown furniture,” meaning any furniture (regardless of quality) other than the “mid-century casual” furniture (think clean, lightweight) favored by millennials. Brown furniture is basically firewood.

Well, Almost Everything. What do guns, LPs (records), and precious metals/gems have in common? They are the few things you might have in your house with a robust resale value. Silver also has value, but only if it is real and can be melted down.

Be viciously thoughtful about holding onto sentimental items. Keep just enough that reminds you of who owned it, but not so much stuff that your children/grandchildren will need to deal with. That means they box it and shoved under a bed or out of sight, out of mind into the attic.

How do you get started? Let children/grandchildren select 1 or 2 pieces of jewelry, Christmas ornaments etc. so that if they want, they have a special remembrance. You giving away these items and seeing the joy in preserving a memory of a special family member is priceless.

Set aside photos to be digitized (with the originals then destroyed). Don’t save any school papers, report cards, awards or art projects from grown children.

Buy fewer books. While used book resellers do an important service in keeping books in circulation, a surprising number of books end up in landfills because many paper recycling facilities can’t process the the glue that binds book spines. Cut down on your book consumption by only reading books that are borrowed from the library or purchasing ebooks.

Buy fewer, but better quality, clothes. The world is overflowing with used clothing. Clothing today is meant to last no more than a few years. In fact, a lot of clothing isn’t even made to withstand more than a few washes. Think you are “paying it forward” but dropping off a load of unwanted clothes at a charity shop? Think again. Most clothing donations never make it to the racks are only about a third of what does eventually sells. Cut down on the amount of clothing you have by buying better quality clothes that last longer.

Start Using Everything. Why hold on to family china, silver, crystal to only use it maybe twice a year, that is if the children/grandchildren come home for the holidays. You deserve to be using your best. If it breaks or gets damaged, don’t worry. Remember, your children/grandchildren will just be selling it for pennies on the dollar at a garage sale after you're Dead And Gone. So, use what you Love and Toss what you Don’t!

Things Guests Notice in Your Home, and they’re not always Good

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 18:22:33 GMT

What is the first thing you do when getting your house ready for guests? When faced with having to turn our home into the best version of itself, we often discover just how bad their impression is. Here is a guide to what your guests definitely see in your space (that you probably don't).

Cohesiveness and Flow: Many guest will notice the flow and furniture placement in a home. Don’t let your guest spend the time in your home mentally rearranging your furniture.

Quick fix: Limit your color scheme and furniture style from room to room. Move some furniture around. That chair, table, lamp and rug aren’t glued to that spot! Always remember this one word, EDIT. Edit your space to see how the flow improves.

Cleanliness and Clutter: Your guest shouldn’t be stressed out seeing your real-life mess. Unopened mail, old magazines and fast food containers need to be tossed, unless you are wanting to made your guest feel better about their own mess.

Quick fix: Before going to bed, take a quick lap around your house and pick up and throw away or put away. Make your end of the day a time to tidy up, not deep clean, any clutter.

Art, Books and Accessories: Your guest want to know what kind of culture you consume, from what art is displayed on your walls to what books or magazines you read. What you have hanging on your walls or displayed should point out who you are and should say a lot about its owner, not about some big box retailer.

Quick fix: Once again the word EDIT. Edit your books, accessories and art, do an inventory of your lifestyle. Does your home reflect your current interests, not your 20 year old college self.

Scents and Smells: Does your home have an inviting scent—a luxe burning candle, or cookies baking in the oven? Or does it smell like you haven't taken out the garbage or changed the kitty litter in weeks? Guest noticed the bad smells just as much as the good ones.

Quick fix: Burn a candle 10 to 15 minutes before guests arrive. Lastly, find the culprits that may be giving your home a funky smell (e.g., the microwave or the garbage disposal).

Light Sources: When walking into your home, guests will most likely notice natural light, but they'll also pick up on artificial lighting and how light is arranged around the room. The quality of light sets the mood of a space. The same space can feel cozy, familiar, enchanting, or humdrum with just a change of light.

Quick fix: If it's daytime, draw open your curtains, make sure your windows are clean. If it's nighttime, light a few candles, dim your lights ,.

Plants and Greenery: Guests notice your plants, flowers, and greenery inside and out. Nothing says to your guest, “Go Away” quicker than a pot of dead mums, rotting pumpkins or a dried out wreath at the front door. Let’s not get started with the row of inside plants sitting on plastic that you are nursing and hopeful will make it to Spring.

Quick fix: Get rid of any dead plants in your yard and inside the house. Toss out the dead, or barely hanging on to life and refresh your main rooms with fresh plants, flowers or if your guest are on they way over, cut some branches and stick them in a nice vase.

Home Basics Everyone Forgets to Buy

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 19:38:59 GMT

I’m willing to bet that you'd rather spend your money on a new decorative item over a boring home essential. Decorative accent pieces are simply more fun to shop for. So, have fun shopping for home decor but make sure your stocked with the home basics.

Decorative Tray - Trays can seem unnecessary but they are the perfect, stylish way to corral items. They are good for honestly any room in your home.

A Good Rug Pad - A thick, plush rug pad is a game changer. It will protect your wood floors, stop your rug from crawling when placed on top of carpet and for your safety keep your rugs from slipping out from under your feet. Like I said a game changer.

Large Art - Small art is great, but too many little guys can make a wall feel cluttered. Don't forget the importance and power of BIG art. Remember to support our local artist!

Vintage - This essential is not necessarily forgotten but it's so essential. Vintage gives your home instant soul. That’s right we’re calling tit Vintage not Antique, Millennials take note!

Cool Décor Objects - They can seem an unnecessary purchase, as they are purely decorative, but will showoff your personality.

Under-the-Sink Shelf - This is purely practical but so smart. Maximize your storage under your sink with a shelf.

Batteries in All Shapes and Sizes -This is another more practical essential. me. It will be 11 pm and your smoke alarm battery will die and not having that 9volt on hand will make you want to cry.

Most Important Home Basic - FLASHLIGHTS - After living through the tornado that ripped through Ruston in April, I learned first hand how important having a flashlight in every room is. Don't waste your money on a cheap flashlight, spend the money on at least one really good flashlight and keep it where you can put your hands on it. The next time you find yourself in the dark you will say, "Thank You David Hedgepeth Interiors!".

What do Americans want in their homes? House Hunters has some clues.

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 20:17:13 GMT

While not scientific, House Hunters offers compelling data about design trends.

People prefer open-concept floor plans.

Most people can’t stand carpeting. Hardwood floors are the holy grail when it comes to floor coverings. This is good news for rug companies, not so much for broadloom carpet makers.

Everyone talks about midcentury modern as a must-have, but the number of people who want entire homes along that design track is limited. Modern farmhouses, Georgian brick homes and Colonials all seem popular.

When it comes to the kitchen, it better have an island. Not a peninsula, not an extended arm or wraparound counter, but an island.

One more thing about kitchens, Granite countertops are the choice du jour. And that granite better be on the top of white, modern cabinets.

Home shoppers have a disturbing interest in mudrooms. For many, this is a priority at the top of their must have list.

Home buyers have an ongoing love affair with garages. They comment how useful they will be for storing stuff, all kinds of stuff … with the exception of automobiles.

Last in the Series: Different Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 21:12:57 GMT

Home doesn’t end at your front door. For those of us effected by the recent tornado in Ruston, this has been made all too clear. Now as we rebuild or homes and neighborhoods, there is no time like the present to remember how to be a better neighbor. There’s more than one way to create a home that feels comfortable and content—and a lot of it happens outside your own four walls. Living amongst considerate people means everyone can enjoy their home to its fullest. But that means we all must be the neighbor you’d like to have, too. #RUSTONSTRONG

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Join your neighborhood association and attend the meetings.
Attend your homeowners’ association meetings or, even better, get on the board.
Learn about and support local advocacy movements that appeal to your values. Fight for the rights of yourself and others in your neighborhood.
Know who your representatives are, at every level.
Vote. Educate yourself about the elections and measures happening locally.
If you’re able, donate time or money to the candidates and issues that support your values.
If you’d like to display campaign signs to support causes or candidates, make sure they’re within your property.
Organize a service project for your neighborhood. Gather up some of your neighbors and suggest a day cleaning up a local park, or volunteering at a nearby shelter.
Pick up trash when you see trash. Don’t litter.

4th in the series: Different Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 23:38:10 GMT

Living amongst considerate people means everyone can enjoy their home to its fullest. But that means we all must be the neighbor you’d like to have, too. #RUSTONSTRONG

SUPPORTIVE HABITS

Greet your neighbors with a “hello,” a smile, or a wave each time you see them. Ask how they’re doing.
If you see a neighbor carrying groceries or something unwieldy, help them unload.
Carry your neighbors’ trash bins to the curb on trash day.
If you see they have a package, carry it to their door.
Compliment your neighbors. If you enjoy their flowers, their decorations, or their new car, say so.
Learn your neighbors’ work schedules. For instance, if one of your close neighbors works a night shift, you might want to maintain different courtesies.
If you know your neighbors have young children at home, ask what time they usually nap so you can keep quiet and watch out for doorbell-ringers.
Learn your neighbors’ customs, religions, or affiliations, and wish them well on holidays or events.
Learn your neighbors’ dietary restrictions and keep them in mind when you’re hosting a potluck or bringing them a gift.
Try being outside more. Take walks or spend quality time outside to see and greet your neighbors more often, and make your neighborhood feel more like a community.
Attend block parties, movie nights in the park, community cookouts, and other neighborhood events.
Set your expectations appropriately. Your neighbors may not be as neighborly as you are, and that’s okay

3rd in the series: Different Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 17:05:48 GMT

Home doesn’t end at your front door. For those of us effected by the recent tornado in Ruston, this has been made all too clear. Now as we rebuild or homes and neighborhoods, there is no time like the present to remember how to be a better neighbor. There’s more than one way to create a home that feels comfortable and content—and a lot of it happens outside your own four walls. Living amongst considerate people means everyone can enjoy their home to its fullest. But that means we all must be the neighbor you’d like to have, too. #RUSTONSTRONG

NEW NEIGHBORS

Introduce yourself to new neighbors as soon as you can.
Tell them about your household or family, and provide them with your names, phone numbers and email addresses.
Learn their names (and the names of their children or pets), remember them, and use them. There’s no shame in keeping a note on your phone until you know them by heart.
Bring them a small treat or a gift, such as a bottle of wine, a homecooked treat, a gift card, or a bouquet of flowers.
Give recommendations for any local services you love—such as a plumber, lawn mower, dry cleaner, or a great takeout spot.
Host a potluck or cocktail hour for your building or neighborhood to get to know the new neighbors.
If you’re new to the block, invite your neighbors to your housewarming party.

Different Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 29 May 2019 21:34:40 GMT

Home doesn’t end at your front door. For those of us effected by the recent tornado in Ruston, this has been made all too clear. Now as we rebuild or homes and neighborhoods, there is no time like the present to remember how to be a better neighbor. There’s more than one way to create a home that feels comfortable and content—and a lot of it happens outside your own four walls. Living amongst considerate people means everyone can enjoy their home to its fullest. But that means we all must be the neighbor you’d like to have, too. #RUSTONSTRON

HOUSE MANNERS

Don’t mow the lawn or run loud equipment too early on the weekends.
Be mindful of when you honk your horn in the driveway.
Be mindful of when your headlights are shining into another neighbors’ windows.
Maintain your landscaping and home’s exterior to the standard of the rest of the neighborhood.
Be mindful of your exterior lights; it’s good to keep shadowy areas lit, but you should make sure your lights aren’t shining into a neighbor’s windows.
Make sure you’re following city ordinances regarding trash, noise or any other nuisance.

Different Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 28 May 2019 18:18:42 GMT

Home doesn’t end at your front door. For those of us effected by the recent tornado in Ruston, this has been made all too clear. Now as we rebuild our homes and neighborhoods, there is no time like the present to remember how to be a better neighbor and friend. There’s more than one way to create a home that feels comfortable and content—and a lot of it happens outside your own four walls. Living amongst considerate people means everyone can enjoy their home to its fullest. But that means we all must be the neighbor you’d like to have, too. #RUSTONSTRONG

COMMON CURTESIES

Greet your neighbors as you see them. A simple “hello” or a wave from the driveway is enough.
Give your neighbors a heads up when you’re hosting a party. (Or even invite them!)
If you’re having people over, make sure they don’t block a neighbor’s driveway or take somebody else’s parking spot.
Show responsibility for your pets, and keep them from encroaching on your neighbors space, both property and personal.
Always keep your dog on a leash in common areas.
Pick up after your pets.
Ask the owner before you let your dog greet another neighbor’s dog or child.
Teach your children good manners in regards to how they interact with their neighbors, such as which areas are private, or what they should do if their ball enters another person’s yard.
Don’t overload your trash and recycling bins, or put your bins out before pickup day. If you find your bins are overloaded regularly, consider getting a second one.
Treat pest problems right away; they can spread to your neighbors’ homes.
If you get your neighbor’s mail by mistake, deliver it to them.
Don’t gossip about your neighbors, in person or online.
Don’t eavesdrop on others’ conversations. If you accidentally overhear something, don’t repeat it to anyone.
Be respectful of others’ privacy, and don’t trespass on your neighbors’ property.
Keep yourself aware of your behavior, specifically anything that can be seen, heard, or smelled by the people you share your neighborhood with. Be the neighbor you’d like to have.

Check back weekly for more in the series Different Ways You Can Be A Better Neighbor

Zero-Cost Ways to Make Your Home Feel Fresh

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Wed, 15 May 2019 18:56:57 GMT

There comes a time in the life of every home when you know it time to refresh. This refresh doesn't necessarily involve a full-blown remodel or overhaul, but just like any good spring-cleaning session—you sometimes need to roll up your sleeves to make your home feel new again.

Rethink Your Layout - With a pen, a paper, and a little muscle, you can completely transform the flow of a room. Plan a completely new layout with your existing furniture: Move your sofa by the window, or move furniture away from the walls and closer together. Don't hesitate to bring accent furniture from other rooms or swap artwork from room to room.

Flip Your Rug Upside Down - This only works with certain rugs, usually oriental ones, but here's a quick designer tip: Flipping your rug upside down will expose the textural weave and more muted colors of its flip side. So if you're growing a little tired of your rug, take a peek at what's on the back, and turn it around.

Decorate With Greenery From Outside - Get out in the backyard, go for a walk, and find pretty branches to decorate with. Greenery adds life and sculptural elements. All you need is a vase and some fresh water.

Strip Something Back to Its Original Texture - If you live in an older home, chances are some things have been painted over and refinished dozens of times—but do you know what lies beneath? Try stripping a door back to its original wood, or do the same with wooden beams or even vintage furniture. Do your research before tackling anything major, but remember that a little patina can go a long way in making a home feel lived-in but fresh.

Use Your Leftover Paint - We all had those leftover paint cans lying around that are essentially 95% empty but we keep just in case. Why not use some of that paint to refinish a piece of furniture or a room accent? Dip-dye the legs of a chair or paint the mantel or a door for an instant refresh.

Style a Piece of Furniture Before Throwing It Out - Styling has a huge influence on how we perceive items, this is why retail stores put so much effort in presentation. If you have a tired piece of furniture lying around, channel your inner decorator and give it the best overhaul you can: style it with your ultimate favorite books, mirrors, and vases. You just might also look at it in a whole new light.

Simple Ways to Decorate Your Porch for Spring

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 16:18:19 GMT

Spring is here! If and when the rain stops, here are some simple ways to tidy up and decorate your porch.

A fresh doormat at your Front Door - You don’t necessarily need to get a new mat every season or every year, but depending on the condition of the one you have (remember it’s been a wet winter) spring is a fun time to splurge on something new. So, whether you get a new doormat or not, take a few minutes to sweep off the entrance porch! Nothing says "Go Away" like dead fall leaves or dried out pine needles from your Christmas decor.

A layered rug under you Door Mat - Give your old doormat an extra dose of pizzaz! Doormats aren’t always pretty. Layering a larger outdoor rug underneath a smaller doormat can add an interesting twist with additional texture, pattern or color. A larger rug can also make your whole porch look refresher.

Plants in pots by your Front Door - Love going to the garden center this time of year? Treat yourself to a new outdoor plant. Fresh greenery will bring a touch of life to your porch! Just remember, to ditch your sad, close to being dead greenery. Make it easy on yourself and keep your new plants in the pots they came in by setting into an existing pot. Instant SPRING!

A spring door basket on your Front Door - Try hanging a basket on your front door, instead of last years tired, dirty wreath! It’s so easy to add a spring bouquet or some plant clippings from the yard into the basket (you can set a small vase or jar inside for fresh water). Refresh as needed!

Decorating Mistakes Everyone Makes In Their Living Room

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 17:05:16 GMT

When entering a meticulously designed living room, we feel it right away: the perfect proportions giving the space a certain grandeur, the plush seating drawing us in, each well-appointed seat suggesting long lazy afternoons spent without having to leave the living room. Sometimes, what is wrong in our own living rooms can be as simple as a painting hung too high or a lack of eye-level lamps. The space of your dreams may not be so out of reach—simply fix these mistakes and then enjoy your new and improved space.

Mistake #1: Selecting or Keeping the Wrong Sofa - A great living room starts with a great sofa. You have good taste, but already have a sofa that you want to work with and don't want to replace it because it’s just a place to sit. A good sofa is key to comfort, but it's also central to how a room feels and looks. Getting the sofa right is to pay attention to seat height (a low seat is hard to get in and out of) and to draw a furniture floor plan before purchasing. Buying on impulse is great for accessories and side tables, but never for a sofa, as it can be a very costly mistake. Pay particular attention to the quality of the fabric and the timelessness of the shape.

Mistake #2: Falling Into the Showroom Look - Another mistake that plagues living rooms everywhere, is the showroom feel. In other words, a room that looks like it's all been purchased from the same store. It's important to mix new and vintage elements in order to create an interesting, eclectic, and individualized room. To avoid feeling like you're in a store, remember to leave adequate room in the budget for lighting, textiles, and accessories after large items are selected. The small pieces are what add personality.

Mistake #3: Buying a Rug That's Too Small - The American consumer has been suffering for too long from 'small rug' syndrome. Large rugs can be expensive and can feel like such a scary commitment, but it's one of the most important aspects of a room. Living rooms almost always need at least an 8-by-10-foot (if not a 9-by-12-foot) rug. Unless you have a tiny living room, stay away from anything under 6-by-9-feet. A 4-by-6-foot rug might be fine next to a bed, in a kitchen, or in an entrance, but it will not work in your living room.

Mistake #4: Poorly Planning Your Layout - While it may be tempting to push a sofa against a wall facing the TV and call it a day, there is more involved in planning a great living room layout. It's important to consider and create conversation groupings. It's also very important to consider views from your major seating. In a room with a fireplace, it’s important to figure out how to make the TV and fireplace work together. Remember swivel chairs can be your answer, and Dad some do recline!

Mistake #5: Hanging Art Incorrectly - Art hung the wrong way on a wall is like a character in a movie wearing a really bad wig, it's just hard not to see it. While some think that art should be hung at eye level, remember this doesn't apply in every case. Art should be at eye level, but not if your ceilings are really low, not if you are really tall and think about the height of the furniture the art is to hang over.

Mistake #6: Making It Too Precious to Live In - While the days of unused sitting rooms and plastic-wrapped furniture are long gone, pay special attention to making your living room fit the conveniences of everyday living. Select textiles and rugs that can take the wear and tear of everyday living. There are some great outdoor fabrics that cats, dogs and kids cannot destroy. It's important to select rugs that will wear well. Make sure that there's adequate storage in the living room to contain all of the items that we like to have around: toys, magazines, remotes.

Mistake #7: Not Mixing Periods and Styles - People often feel boxed in and limited by the architecture of their home and select furniture based on the home's time period. Remember you can mix new and vintage elements, but pay attention to furniture size and heights as traditional furniture needs to play well with your more modern pieces.

Ruston Fashion Week 2019

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 18:26:29 GMT

THINK GLOBAL, ENTERTAIN LOCAL

GLOBE-TROTTING TABLE SCAPES BY

Hasson Glasgow, Lynn Gnemi

Mary Jane VanZant

Catherine McVea & Cathy Taylor

David Hedgepeth

Presentations - Conservations - Refreshments

David Hedgepeth Interiors

Julie Mays Interiors

Wednesday, April 3 - 3:00 - 6:00 pm - 111 N Trenton - Ruston LA

davidhedgepethinteriors.com juliemaysinteriors.com

RUSTONFASHIONWEEK.COM - #RFW2019

Décor Trends That Are Out, and What's In

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 21:20:35 GMT

Decorating a home is a work in progress. Each new item is a reflection of your life and personality at any given time. They're also what makes a house feel like home. Despite your best efforts to keep it classic, you have yet to resist the charm of the latest interior design trends, but there's a fine line between timeless and trendy.

OUT: Brass Overkill - If you're looking around at all the brass in your home right now, don't stress. All though most designers still love the look, they do think it’s gone a little overboard. Most recommend mixing metals which provides a more eclectic and sophisticated palette. It makes a home feel unique. So what should we replace it with? In general, mixing your brass with chrome feels a bit more timeless. Consider adding touches with your lighting or accessories, or simply mix and match your finishes, which can help to create a design that is more organic. Best Tip: Avoid dated shinny brass pieces, as they tend to look super yellow, think brass with an aged finish.

IN: Dark Green Paint - The all-white look has dominated design trends this year, it's time to move to the dark side. Dark blue has been over done so make way for dark green's grand entrance.

OUT: Marble Imitation - Marble will never go out of style—it's an absolute classic—but it's time to ditch the imitations. While it is a timeless material, enough of everything being made from so many cheap imitations.

IN: Bronze - Since brass has been so overdone, what metal needs to take its place, say hello to bronze, the latest interior design trend in metal. Bronze is going to be the new It metal. It plays well with other finishes and colors and is a little bit more on the neutral side.

OUT: Macramé - Who doesn’t adore the boho-chic trend, but it's time to retire macramé. There are so many other ways to add bohemian flair to your space instead of covering your walls with cumbersome wall hangings. Thoughtful local art selections can make a huge impact in helping your space feel more lived in and inspired.

OUT: Copper Overload - Copper is dead? Say it ain't so. Sad to see copper go because its blush tones are so pleasing to the eye, but when cooper isn’t done well, it has a tendency to look cheap.

IN: Quality Over Quantity - When it comes to design, choosing quality over quantity is never a bad move. Your goal is to simplify and focus on getting to the root of what is necessary and essential. It's may seem easy to make a mediocre room look better if you throw on a million little accessories, but always try to be thoughtful about the purchases you make, think about the memories they will bring up. If you find that perfect accessory that is not only beautiful but of true quality, you'll thank yourselves a million times over when you aren't rushing to replace it within a few years.

OUT: Cool Gray Tones - People are craving warmer tones, and colors such as taupe, mink will make a huge comeback. Texture will be key.

IN: Pottery - With the emergence of quality over quantity, handmade products will gain in popularity. Anything sculptural or handmade makes for unique home accents, remember real art to make your space feel personalized.

IN: Embellishments - The minimalistic trend has swept interior design. Look for ruffles, pleats, and trims (of course, done in the right way) start popping up in design.

OUT: Chevron - Most feel that the chevron trend has surpassed its use-by date, but when every big-box store releases chevrons on everything all that can be said is, Next!

OUT: Fiddle-Leaf Figs - They seemed to be in every corner of every home, it’s time to move on. In fact, indoor plants are an outdated accessory. On the other hand, cut flowers and greenery are a necessity.

OUT: Faux Design - When new tries to imitate old in all the wrong ways it's time to rethink. The trend of making everything new look old is something that is old and dated. Instead, look for authentic pieces from the flea market, antique store or your grandmother’s attic or pieces inspired directly from antiques, those will always be in style and give you the look you want.

ALWAYS IN: Going Against Trends - While home décor trends are definitely fun to sprinkle around, but that doesn’t mean you have to follow them. It's more about what feels classic; just do what you love. Fill your home with not only beautiful things but things that have meaning to you. Pieces that you find on your travels or that you fall in love with at first glance, those will never be out of style. Living beautifully is about living with what you love.

Traditional Decor Is Back...not your Grandmother’s Traditional

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 18:00:16 GMT

Traditional decor has a serious staying power with a timeless style and a look of modern design. Traditional design is back because people are drawn to it for its comfort beauty and timeless sensibility. Economically people enjoy timeless design that will last over time as opposed to a trendy style that they may eventually grow tired of. How do you make the old-school design style current? Here are tips for nailing traditional design in 2019, including the most common mistake people make when decorating in the style—and how to avoid it.

- Inspired by the 18th- and 19th-century European décor, traditional design is hardly new. The furnishings are a reflection of historical design elements, utilizing natural materials and colors. Architectural elements of heavy trim work, built-in cabinetry, raised paneled doors, and grand fireplaces are key hallmarks of traditional design. However, even if your space is lacking in these details, you can still get the look. The new traditional has a modern influence that creates warmth and ease that is subtle with layers of texture, color, and excitingly new, bold finishes.

- For a modern take on traditional design that doesn't involve adding architectural interest to your space, start with a neutral color base and include layers of texture and colorful accents, add bold large-scale pieces to make a statement as opposed to lots of smaller pieces, which can look busy and cluttered.

- Opting for streamlined furniture silhouettes that are sleek and sophisticated as your base lays the groundwork for a well-edited room. Include personal touches when styling, such as grouping modern accessories that are bold in scale, or all in one color tone, such as white or brass, to highlight a bookcase or cabinet. Hang art to create a bold statement, or showcase a group of found objects as art on a wall to create an unexpected focal point.

- Avoid selecting furniture pieces that are a matched set with the same fabric and finish. The room will feel flat and lack depth in wood finish, color, and texture. To avoid a matchy-matchy room create a layered look by mixing and combining furniture pieces that have a different finish to mix it up adding texture and interest. The goal is to create a room that is not a cookie cutter matched look but has a unique style that feels exciting and fresh.

- To make traditional design feel fresh and modern, formulate your color palette and feature wallpaper with an interesting bold pattern or texture. Don't be afraid to mix materials and finishes. Go bold with an oversized light fixture in a brass or polished nickel finish to make a statement.

- To bring a space up to date, add modern pieces to offset the traditional design. Mix in bold contemporary finishes such as a matte black or a polished nickel to add fun highlights and enliven the space. And, as with any design style, be sure to personalize your space with interesting found objects or family heirlooms to feel collected and not staged.

4 Easy Steps to Flower Arranging

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 20:07:19 GMT

Flower arranging can be fun and easy, but you may need a few simple rules to guide you.

First rule is to keep a tight color palette – either all one flower or all one color or all in one color family then add several tones of green.

Second rule is to keep the flowers looking natural - as they would grow in the garden - so add garden leaves and flower buds.

Third rule is to consider your container. In this case size does matter, the larger the container the more flowers and foliage you’ll need to fill. So consider your container options as well as where you plan on placing your arrangement.

Fourth rule is maintaining your arrangement. Always fresh cut the stems before arranging. Recut stems and change water every two days to make flowers last longer. Remove any foliage below the water line, foliage will rot and cause flowers to go bad and add a small amount of bleach keep the water from turning bad.

No matter whether you’re buying flowers at a florist, grocery store or picking them from your yard, it’s really fun to make your own arrangements.

5 Different Ways to Keep Your Glass Shower Door Clean for Good

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 15:21:33 GMT

There are two types of people in the world: Shower curtain people and glass door people. No matter which you prefer, we can all agree that glass shower doors are kind of a pain to keep clean.

Squeegee Every Day - Without a doubt, this is the most effective way to keep a clean glass shower, but it's also the most demanding. Not time-wise (it takes a minute, tops, to squeegee your shower door after each use), but demanding in a different way. You have to get yourself – and everybody at home – into a new daily habit.

A Magic Eraser -If your shower is neglected and in need of a deep clean, try a Magic Eraser to get rid of soap scum and mineral deposits. It makes quick work of yucky residue, and then you can use it to give the faucets and hardware a shine.

A Dryer Sheet - Take a dryer sheet from the laundry room, get it lightly damp, and then use it to scrub down the glass shower door. It's really that simple. The same ingredients that soften your fabrics will soften soap scum and lift it right off the glass

Bar Keepers Friend - This seemingly one-note cleaner is not only great to keep in the kitchen , it can also clean and polish your glass shower doors to a perfect shine.

Pine-Sol and an old T-Shirt - This is the tip that gets passed down: Mix Pine-Sol together with water in a spray bottle (the Pine-Sol website suggests ⅛ cup of Pine-Sol in ½ gallon of warm water) and spray it on your shower door before wiping it all down with an soft and worn-out T-Shirt.

The Secrets to Styling Your Home Like a Parisian

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 22:47:15 GMT

The French are synonymous with style—and when it comes to interiors, they’ve mastered that classic and contemporary mix to a T. So what’s their secret? How do they always get it so right? Perhaps the key to achieving that effortless Parisian style is a little nonchalance.

Keep it chic and simple - An uncomplicated color palette will bring balance to your space with a hint of intrigue. A simple palette is best because it’s easy to live with. It’s easygoing, not complicated, and it makes life easier.

Use antique furniture and decor where possible - France is steeped in history. From the architecture to the museums, a stroll through the streets Paris will transport you back in time, so bring this sense of history inside. You don’t have to be French to mix modern art with antique furniture.

Fuse eras for a classic contemporary look - To design a truly French interior that stands the test of time, create a balance between old-world elegance and contemporary design. It’s important that a home should stimulate the five senses, from the tactile of textured upholstery to the visual of objects.

Inject a sense of fun and whimsy with bold art - The French love to bring an element of fun into their home with artwork. Large abstract paintings, black-and-white photography, sketches, or children’s illustrations will balance out the home’s serious elements of architecture and furniture.

Layer the space with curiosities and unique objects - Paris is famous for its flea markets, which brim with décor, furniture, paintings, sculptures, lights, mirrors, antiques, silverware, bric-a-brac, and pretty things. These hidden gems are perfect for displaying in your home. Layering your estate sale and antique shop treasures throughout your home adds a sentimental touch and visual interest.

Mix rough and refined - Achieving a truly French space is all in the mix and blending furniture with art objects in surprising ways. The simple mixture of something very rough with something very refined to can add attitude and warmth. By grouping furniture arrangements and art objects of various textures in surprising ways, you create intrigue and diversity.

Get romantic with gilded décor and blush tones - It’s little wonder the homes of Paris, the most romantic city in the world, evoke a fairy-tale charm, too. Embrace the amorous aesthetic with antique gilded bronze in accessories and hardware. Add some blush textiles into the mix and you’ve got your very own Marie Antoinette inspired interior…minus the cake.

The Vane of My Existence

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:09:02 GMT

IT’S DUST!

It feels like no matter what I do or how often I clean, there's always a layer of dust waiting to settle on to every surface in my home. But contrary to popular belief, it's not mostly dead skin, the majority of household dust comes from dirt, pollen and other outdoor particles . So it is preventable, if you're smart about it.

Keep It Outside - Most dust comes in from outdoors, a good defense is your best offense here. Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible. Maybe commit to a no-shoes policy inside and get a good-quality doormat to leave outside your main entrance.

Groom Your Pets in a Clean Space - Regularly brushing your furry friend produces errant hair and dust. Regularly groom them outside, or in an easy-to-clean space like the bathroom, you can seriously cut down on your cleaning.

Pack Up Paper and Fabrics - Loose fibers from fabric and paper contribute to household dust. Store unused clothing or linens in a storage box . Recycle magazines, newspapers and cardboard boxes and break down boxes outside instead of in your dining room.

Change Your Sheets Often - Between the fibers of your sheets and the skin particles from your body, your bed is a dust-generating machine. Keep sheets and bedding as clean as possible by washing weekly, and cleaning your pillows ( they can go in the washing machine! ), comforter and mattress pads once a month, or at least every other month.

Use a Vacuum With a HEPA Filter - When you actually do need to clean, use a vacuum with a HEPA or high-efficiency particulate air filter. It will safely trap dust and other allergens inside the machine and keep them from being released back into the air.

Get an Air Purifier - There are machines designed to collect and trap dust. Make sure your purifier has a HEPA filter, and place it near the door or window for optimal dust-dodging action.

How to Make Dusting Less Work

Line Tall Surfaces With Newspaper - Hard-to-reach spots—like tall bookshelves and the tops of your kitchen cabinets—are a pain to dust. So don't. Line the spot with newspaper and recycle and replace it every so often.

De-Clutter and Cut Back on Fabrics - The more trinkets and knick-knacks, the harder it's going to be to dust them. So declutter. You should also limit textiles, blankets and throw pillows, to only what's necessary, since fabrics not only trap dust, but they can produce it as well.

Dust Your Blinds with a Sock - Slip a chenille sock over your hand and use your fingers to get into the grooves of your horizontal blinds. You'll be surprised at how much dust you'll be able to reach.

Use a Dryer Sheet to Dust Your Baseboards - Dryer sheets (new or used) collect dust better than a cloth. Run one along your baseboards and see for yourself how quickly it attracts dust particles.

Run a Lint Roller Over Lampshades and Curtains - A lint roller, just like the kind you use on your clothes, removes dust and dirt from any other fabric just as well.

If none of these tips work for you, fell free to use my diluted housekeeping tip. “Dust what dust? That’s not dust, I’ve decorated my house in a Winter Wonderland style.”

Zero-Cost Ways to Make Your Home Feel Fresh

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 22:17:16 GMT

There comes a time in the life of every home when you know it time to refresh. This refresh doesn't necessarily involve a full-blown remodel or overhaul, but just like any good spring-cleaning session—you sometimes need to roll up your sleeves to make your home feel new again.

Rethink Your Layout - With a pen, a paper, and a little muscle, you can completely transform the flow of a room. Plan a completely new layout with your existing furniture: Move your sofa by the window, or move furniture away from the walls and closer together. Don't hesitate to bring accent furniture from other rooms or swap artwork from room to room.

Flip Your Rug Upside Down - This only works with certain rugs, usually oriental ones, but here's a quick designer tip: Flipping your rug upside down will expose the textural weave and more muted colors of its flip side. So if you're growing a little tired of your rug, take a peek at what's on the back, and turn it around.

Decorate With Greenery From Outside - Get out in the backyard, go for a walk, and find pretty branches to decorate with. Greenery adds life and sculptural elements. All you need is a vase and some fresh water.

Strip Something Back to Its Original Texture - If you live in an older home, chances are some things have been painted over and refinished dozens of times—but do you know what lies beneath? Try stripping a door back to its original wood, or do the same with wooden beams or even vintage furniture. Do your research before tackling anything major, but remember that a little patina can go a long way in making a home feel lived-in but fresh.

Use Your Leftover Paint - We all had those leftover paint cans lying around that are essentially 95% empty but we keep just in case. Why not use some of that paint to refinish a piece of furniture or a room accent? Dip-dye the legs of a chair or paint the mantel or a door for an instant refresh.

Style a Piece of Furniture Before Throwing It Out - Styling has a huge influence on how we perceive items, this is why retail stores put so much effort in presentation. If you have a tired piece of furniture lying around, channel your inner decorator and give it the best overhaul you can: Style it with your ultimate favorite books, mirrors, and vases. You just might also look at it in a whole new light.

DHI Learning Series

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 17:02:39 GMT

Arranging Grocery Store Flowers

A hands-on workshop where you will learn simple techniques for creating floral arrangements.

Thursday, Feb. 7 - 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Series taught by David Hedgepeth

$ 20.00 includes supplies - Reserved & Limited Seating

David Hedgepeth Interiors

111 N Trenton - Historic Downtown Ruston - 318.255.7698

Fighting Traffic

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 19:04:53 GMT

High-traffic areas and homes with kids and/or pets, area rugs can take a serious beating.

Durability - Places like entries, staircases and hallways call for a tight weave or hight knot count. Hand-tufted or hand-knotted rugs can handle the pressure. Or try nylon or micro-hooked wool. Avoid plant fibers like jute, hemp, sisal, bamboo and silk because they break down easily.

Cleanability - Outdoor rugs look great and you can take them outside and hose them off. Look for one made from recycled polyester or polypropylene. If you prefer natural fibers, a wool rug with a busy pattern works, too.

Remove Stains - Combine 2 parts hydrogen peroxide and1 part liquid dish soap. Blot the stain with the mixture and allow it to penetrate. Pat was a paper towel to draw out the stain; flush with clean water. Make sure the rug is safe to spot treat by testing a hidden area first.

Eliminate Orders - A light sprinkling of baking soda, left for 30 minutes, then vacuum the rug.

How Big Should My Rug Be?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 19:07:39 GMT

Your furniture arrangement is as much a factor as room size.

LIVING ROOM - You want either all the furniture to sit on top of the rug comfortably or all the front legs to be on the rug.

DINING ROOM - Let the chairs guide you. The rug needs to be large enough that the chairs remain on it even when pushed back from the table.

BEDROOM - The rug should frame the bed. You need a 8x10 for a queen bed and a 9x12 for a king. Front feet on bedside tables can sit on the edge.

FURNITURE - A rug should echo the shape of the furniture that will sit on it. If you have a rectangular furniture arrangement, like a dining table, keep your rug selection rectangular. A rectangular rug that encompasses the entire grouping make the most sense.

CONSIDER ROOM SHAPES - Another strategy is to let the shape of your room dictate the shape of your rug. If a room is narrow and long, avoid a circular or square rug.

How Big Should My Rug Be?

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 19:04:16 GMT

Your furniture arrangement is as much a factor as room size.

Living Room - You want either all the furniture to sit on top of the rug comfortably or all the front legs to be on the rug.

Dinning Room - Let the chairs guide you. The rug needs to be large enough that the chairs remain on it even when pushed back from the table.

Bedroom - The rug should frame the bed. You need a 8x10 for a queen bed and a 9x12 for a king. Front feet on bedside tables can sit on the edge.

Furniture - A rug should echo the shape of the furniture that will sit on it. If you have a rectangular furniture arrangement, like a dining table, keep your rug selection rectangular. A rectangular rug that encompasses the entire grouping make the most sense.

Consider Room Shapes - Another strategy is to let the shape of your room dictate the shape of your rug. If a room is narrow and long, avoid a circular or square rug.

How to Choose an Area Rug

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 19:38:59 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Know the lingo helps you shop smart.

Tufted - Pieces of yarn are punched through a backing then cut to create a smooth pile. Tufted rugs shed more than others.

Hooked - Though similar to a tufted rug in that loops of yarn are pulled through a backing, the yarn isn’t cut, leaving a looped pile.

Knotted - Pieces of yarn are tied, often by hand, to warp fibers on a loom.

Braided - Lengths of fabric, yarn, or natural fibers are braided then sewn to one another.

Flat-Woven - Often called kills or dhurries, these are woven on a loom, either by hand or machine. There’s no backing, so they are lighter and reversible.

Shag - Any tufted, women, or knotted rug with long, plush pile.

Everything You Thought You Knew About Burning Candles Is Wrong

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 21:51:20 GMT

Ever consider yourself something of a candle connoisseur. You’ve smelled a ton over the years and lit plenty. Tapers, votives, you name it—there might be some kind of candle in practically every room of your home. But have you ever given much thought to your burning technique? Didn’t think so.

Not Choosing Your Candle Wisely - Candles burn roughly five to seven hours per ounce. So the bigger the candle, the longer the burn time. But what you probably didn't know—and honestly, it seems counterintuitive—is that a three wick candle in the same exact vessel as a one wick candle will burn slower—not faster. Three wicks will actually extend the life of a candle because rather than tunneling straight down the center of the candle (near the one wick) when lit, the wax gets hot enough (from the three flames) to actually pool across the entire candle. This way, you're using every bit of wax in the vessel as you burn it. If you're worried at all about indoor air quality, soy wax with an essential oil-based fragrance will give you the cleanest burn.

Only Trimming Your Wick Once - Trim the wick to 1/4-inch each time before burning to prevent your candle from smoking a lot and creating soot marks on your container. In fact, long or crooked wicks can actually cause uneven burning, dripping, or flaring. The good news is you can use regular scissors or a nail clipper to make cuts. No need for a dedicated.

Not Burning Your Candle Long Enough the First Time - If you want your candle to burn evenly and last as long as possible, you have to light it for about 3 to 4 hours the first time you burn it. Wax has a muscle memory, and it's going to burn in the same pattern every time. So if you light it for long enough the first time, that will ensure that your candle pools completely across all of the wax, setting it up to continue to do so with each subsequent burn. Otherwise, tunneling, where the wick burns straight down the center of a candle without creating a full melt pool, can occur. Once your candle starts tunneling, you're losing all that peripheral wax surface area for future burns.

Giving Up on an Improperly Burned Candle - Yeah, you read that right. You have a couple of options to bring a slightly tunneled candle back to life. You can use a hair dryer on low to even out the wax surface or pop the candle in an oven at 175 degrees for about 5 minutes. These two actions will melt the wax, so that it's smooth and level across the top again. Scoop out any wax that flows over the wick.

Not Watching Your Burn Time - Do not burn your candle for longer than four to six hours at a time. If you let the whole candle get liquid, the wick or wicks can float to the side, and it's going to burn unevenly after that.

Blowing Out Your Candles - Seriously. You thought snuffers were another marketing ploy, but when you blow out a flame, it actually creates and spreads those little annoying black ash particles that get stuck in the wax. You don't have to buy a snuffer though. Just get a candle with a lid, and it'll smother the flame in the same way. Plus, a top keeps dust and dirt out.

Not Reusing Your Vessels - Look for candles that the container is designed to be upcycled. Ceramic, metal, and glass are food-and drink-safe, but concrete is better as, say, a planter, a makeup brush holder, or a pencil cup.

What Your Bed-Making Style Reveals About Your Personality

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 22:04:03 GMT

There are a lot of ways to make—or not make—a bed. Here are eight different bed-making styles, and the major hints they drop about what makes you tick.

Personality #1: Comfortably Crumpled - Contrary to popular opinion, opting out of making your bed in the morning does not mean you're lazy, or that you're not into setting a specific tone for your day. Instead, it's typically a better indicator of where you line up on the organization wheel - as in, you're probably less about to-do lists, and more comfortable with clutter in general.

Personality #2: Mostly Made - This style of bed-making involves making the bed - but only on a practical level. We're talking sheets and covers pulled up, pillows generally in place, but no frills, folding, or tucking involved. What does this mean about you? That you prioritize function over form. You like to start the day with a clean slate, and know you'll be able to end it without having to wrestle blankets back into alignment, and the most efficient way to accomplish both is a simple and utilitarian approach to making your bed.

Personality #3: The Great Cover-Up - Making your bed in the morning is easy: Ignore the sheets and pillows, head straight to the surface, and simply pull your comforter over the top of everything. Voila! Bed, made. Those with this approach are likely more on the spontaneous side, and less dedicated to details. Instead, you take on to-do lists with a mixture of devil-may-care and determination. You'll complete your tasks, but are more likely to do so with flourish than precision.

Personality #4: Hospital Corners - Does your morning begin with making your bed, complete with neatly tucked hospital corners? We know a few things about you. First, you're organized, and likely a planner. Second, you consider making your bed a task worth starting the day with, and you take pride in the project. And, third, you fully acknowledge that the little things in life, no matter how understated those details may be, matter.

Personality #5: Style-Centric - Making your bed isn't a process, it's a production. Complete with immaculate sheets, styled pillows, and possibly even a carefully selected quilt folded across the foot of the bed. Sound familiar? Your bed-making style is closely linked to your deep dedication to details, and your focus on aesthetics. You probably pick pretty over practical, and your bed shows it beautifully.

Personality #6: Mattress Minimalism - Your bed itself is simple, which makes your bed-making process simple, too. You prefer a neat, tidy, clutter-free room, and an equally neat, tidy, clutter-free home, and are highly organized, and possibly a little bit on the introverted side.

Personality #7: Beyond the Bed - At the end of the day, you'll collect your covers from their place crumpled up on the floor, but in the morning? No way. You have places to go, things to do—and you might even be running a little bit late for them. You're among the most spontaneous (and probably extraverted) of the world's bed-makers (or bed-making avoiders), and there's no way something as detail-specific as a wrinkled sheet on your bedroom floor is going to get you down.

Ways to Make Your Home Look More Expensive—on the Cheap

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 20:50:39 GMT

There are ways to get a custom, upscale look without breaking your budget. It doesn't need to be expensive either. With a few simple adjustments and strategic styling techniques, you can create a space that feels regal on a shoestring.

Not convinced? Well keeping reading.

FRESHEN IT UP WITH FLOWERS - You don't need a wallet-busting mega-arrangement to add luxury to your space. A simple (read: cheap) bouquet from the grocery store can be all you need to add sophistication. Besides, it's all about how you arrange the flowers and what vase you arrange them in. First, separate the bouquet by stem type then create several small arrangements to spread around your home. The dent in your wallet (and time) is minimal, but the impact on your home is monumental. If there really isn't anything you like at the grocery store, take a wander outside and cut a few trimmings off a tree or plant then place it casually in a table or floor vase. The greenery will really brighten the space and make it feel like home.

THROW DOWN SOME PILLOWS - A sofa, throw pillows, chair, and drapes that are all in the same fabric and texture will almost certainly make your space fall flat. Swap out bland throw pillows for a variety of textures and sizes to easily add dimension. Even if you're color-averse, just adding in a few hues that are a slight variation of the neutrals you already have will liven up the space.

INVEST IN WINDOW TREATMENTS - Many luxurious and expensive homes have high ceilings and are luckily flooded with natural light. Fool the eye and get the look by hanging your drapery and hardware as high and close to the ceiling as possible—never directly above the window frame. This will draw the eye up and give the appearance of a loftier space. Another trick is to add sheer curtains. They really soften the light that comes in and fill the room with a warmth that is both cozy and feels expensive. Remember, every window is individual to the home and to you.

DECLUTTER, DECLUTTER, DECLUTTER - Clutter and mess are decidedly un-chic. It's one thing to have a generously styled bookshelf or mantlepiece, but too much stuff can look cheap and chaotic. Pare down your accessories and edit your collected possessions to just those few favorites for a look that feels elevated and classic. Most decorated spaces emphasize the art of surface styling. Once you've edited down your decorative accessories to your favorites, make sure to purposefully arrange them in an eye-pleasing manner. Give your furniture the spotlight it deserves with a few simple yet expertly styled pieces for an overall richer experience.

GRAB A ROLLER AND ADD A FRESH COAT - Nothing gives off a personalized and custom vibe more than perfectly hued walls. Roll up your sleeves and get your paint rollers out of storage to get the look for less. Painting a room or a single wall in your home is a simple DIY that promises to have a major impact in any space.

DON'T FORGET THE RUG - Ground your furniture with a statement-making rug. Not only does it bring everything together, it also lays the foundation and really sets the stage for the rest of the room. An area rug adds much-needed warmth, texture, and color, and the larger the rug (and more of your furniture arrangement you are able to comfortably include on it) the more custom and luxurious it will look.

SWAP YOUR LAMP SHADES - Get a personalized look by switching out the worn and dated shades that came with your lamp for a different option. This will help add dimension and make old lamps appear unique and special.

BUY MATCHING SETS FOR ALL YOUR ESSENTIALS - Although you should avoiding matching sets when it comes to furniture, nothing looks more deliberate, neat, and chic than a set of matching containers on a vanity or kitchen counter. Using liquid soap in a dispenser and transferring cotton swabs from a box into a coordinating container elevates the entire look.

Decorate With Effortless Southern Charm

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:02:01 GMT

In many ways, the south is defined by its homes. It all comes down to the fact that people in the South simply cherish their homes. When you cherish the place you call home, it translates into your decor.

Make It Warm and Inviting - One Southern decor trend that will never go out of style is creating a space that feels welcoming—both for the people who live there and the guests they host. Keeping your home filled with natural light, and fresh flowers all make the space feel comfortable and welcoming.

Think Timeless and Classic Instead of Trendy - In all honesty, steer clear of trends, try to create timeless interiors that are authentic to how my you live and use your space. Instead of keeping up with the latest fads, think about what pieces will stand the test of time and grow with you for years to come.

Find Your Southern Hospitality - Southern charm really speaks to Southern hospitality. That means creating living spaces that function for your daily needs and transition for entertaining when you play host to friends and family. Always try to make sure your home is inviting and warm and ideal for entertaining.

Shop for Hidden Gems - A beautiful Southern home isn't without its treasured vintage pieces and thrift store finds. No matter where you live, you can source stunning decor that comes with its own history by shopping in local stores and vintage shops that carry one of a kind accessories, lighting and art.

Embrace Color and Pattern - A room full of patterns and colors, is a Southern decor trend that doesn't seem to be fading out anytime soon. While minimal trends preach muted colors and subtle details, Southern decor is all about playful designs and hues. Choose textiles and accessories that speak to your personal taste to get the look for yourself.

Make It Cohesive - While Southern decor is known to play with various colors and patterns, it's still important to keep designs cohesive throughout a home, especially when working with a small space. Pick one style and/or color palette to ensure the small space feels cohesive, and then keep functionality front of mind with the pieces you choose.

Play With Art - Art is essential in all homes. Always find pieces that complement the colors and mood of a space. If you're unsure where to start when selecting artwork for a room, study the colors and decor to get a sense of what may work well in the space. Go ahead and feel free to add a touch of modern to a classic interior through your art selection. Don’t forget to check out local artist, their art is one of kind and will not be seen in any big box store or better yet your best friends house.

Create Flow - When decorating a house, you want your rooms to flow and complement each other, and you want them to feel different, but you don't want them to be totally disconnected.

Things to Eliminate From Your Living Room, That You Won't Miss

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 15:39:23 GMT

If you're at home, walk into your living room. What do you see? A calming space that nurtures your design soul? Or a kind of cluttered room that's stressing you out a bit right now? Consider eliminating these things from your living room today; you just might feel an instant design relief of your main living space.

Visible wires - They have become nearly invisible to you the longer you've used your space, but these annoying details of modern life stick out like a sore thumb to fresh eyes. Even if you don't notice them all that much now, we promise you will notice when you tuck them away and hide them; your whole room will feel just a little bit fresher and less cluttered, and the attention will go to your fun decor items, not the functional cords.

A couple of throw pillows (or a few things from a vignette) - Our living rooms are a magnet for decor items we don't have any other place for. We tend to add on to these rooms slowly and even mindlessly throughout the year. Excited to add a different feel to a space, these small items aren't dangerous and do tend to freshen the look of a room. But they can also add up after many months, turning into comically huge collections of things like throw pillows on a couch or a tabletop vignette. Take out and store a few of these extra items for a sleeker, more tightly arranged living room.

Clutter on the coffee table - From old dishes to four-foot tall design book stacks to remote controls and more, our coffee tables are a natural landing space in our living rooms for a whole manner of different items. But they're an anchor piece in this room; they are a surface that commands attention and often exists in the dead middle of a room. Keeping this surface a little less full than others in your space will set the tone in a living room (and no, you don't have to take everything off — just do a little streamlining).

Uncomfortable/poorly placed seating - If there's a seat in your living room that you don't like sitting in because of its too-firm (or too soft) cushions or odd-placement, why do you still have it? Replace any seating that's not calling at you like a siren with seating that fits you and your room's style and comfort level better.

Dead/empty/boring corners - Because the living room tends to be the heart of your home's decor, it's even more vital that you pay attention to this room's corners, which, depending on the size, layout and configuration may be a focal point or a barely noticeable spot. What corners shouldn't be are afterthoughts to your decor, especially in your living room when they really count toward the feel of the whole space.

Bad lighting - It’s one thing to try and bring in better lighting — you should be doing that in all of your rooms regardless. But if you brought in better lighting in your living room in the form of a nice table lamp or soft candles, go a step further and eliminate all together any bad lighting. Bulbs in fixtures that cast an institutional colored glow or even any light fixtures that don't work in the space.

Home Upgrades That Nobody Actually Ever Uses

info@davidhedgepethinteriors.com — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 18:47:22 GMT

Buying or renovating a home isn't just about actual walls and floors — it's also an imaginary process in which we project ourselves in different spaces, visualizing what our lives might look like, and the people we could be, if only we lived there. No surprise that people get swept up in the process, becoming enamored with certain features that initially sound and look great. Whether they actually get used is another story. Here are luxury level upgrades that cost a pretty penny, and aren't necessarily worth it.

The Kitchen Desk: These little nooks are like clutter collectors and junk magnets, versus an actual space to sit and get work done in an actual chair with a computer. Think charging station inside a cabinet with USB plugs for your cell phones, tables and lap tops all hidden behind cabinet doors.

Home Gym: These are the poster children of good intentions. I don't blame anyone for thinking they are a great thing to have at home, no ma'am. They signify no trips to the gym in the middle of winter, the end to endless months of membership fees, and not having to associate with other sweaty bodies while you are doing your own physical thing. But, with rare exception, their use tapers off and, by the time you are motivated to use them again, the technology has changed so much that your machines are dinosaurs. Think, I don’t know, eating less?

Wet Bar: Given the prevalence of open floor plans, it seems like overkill to add another sink area when the kitchen is so close by (unless of course you live in a ginormous house). Besides you will only use the sink to water plants (if you actually watered your plants). Think about a stylish bar cart to display your bar ware.

Whirlpool Baths: There is wisdom in tubs for bathing the kiddos, but fancy bathtubs for big humans seem over the top. In the case of whirlpool or jacuzzi baths, they are expensive, take a long time to fill, don't accommodate bubbles (wrong, so so wrong), and are super noisy when they are on— none of which sounds relaxing or conducive to sexy times, if that's what you're up to. Think soaking, either a stand alone tub or the better priced option a under mount tub.

Why Popcorn Ceilings Are Pretty Great!

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 19:17:37 GMT

Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings—formally known as acoustic ceilings and sometimes appetizingly referred to as cottage cheese—have gotten a bad rap over the years. Just Google "popcorn ceilings" you'll be inundated with a slew of tutorials on how to remove them. That being said, this spray-on textured treatment was the standard in most homes for decades, and couldn't help but wonder why.

Why are Popcorn Ceilings Even a Thing?

Here's the short answer: Popcorn ceilings camouflage a multitude of sins. If you know anything about building a house, you know that finishing a dry-walled ceiling is an art form. In layman's terms, once a ceiling is constructed, dry wall seams are covered with paper or fiberglass tape and then covered over with joint compound ("mud"). Once dry, more layers of mud coat are thinly applied and sanded until the surface is flawless. Taping and mudding, as the process is referred to, requires skill and can result in uneven ceilings, sagging seams, and visible nail dimples. If you are DIYing the work yourself, or are on a tight budget, spraying this highly textured finish on your ceiling is a cheap and quick way to hide imperfections.

Plus, as their "acoustic ceiling" nickname suggests, popcorn ceilings also cut down on sound, which is attractive in high-traffic hallways and entryways—not to mention rooms with high ceilings that echo.

But Wait, What About Asbestos?

I know what you're all thinking: asbestos. Synonymous with popcorn ceilings, this naturally occurring silicate mineral was used in early formulations of the ceiling treatment until it was banned by the Clean Air Act in 1978. Oddly enough, the EPA advises against removing asbestos-bearing ceilings , stating, "Asbestos-containing materials that aren't damaged or disturbed are not likely to pose a health risk. Usually the best thing is to leave asbestos-containing material alone if it is in good condition." After 1978, paper-based and styrofoam materials were used in place of asbestos. So, if you currently have a popcorn ceiling, and it's in okay shape, you're safe.

So, Why Do We Hate Them So Much?

The Reason to use Hairspray on Fresh Flowers

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 14:31:53 GMT

Keeping Flowers Fresh

Whether you received flowers as a gift, regularly pick them up at the grocery store, or grow them yourself, one thing is for sure: You want them to last.

Many fresh flower lovers know that trimming stems, keeping vase water fresh and bacteria-free, and storing them overnight in the fridge are ways to keep cut flowers happy longer. But there's another lesser known trick that will prolong your flowers' lives and keep them upright even longer:

Spraying them with hairspray. Here's how to do it:

Trim your flower stems as usual.
Before you put them in a vase, spray the flowers with hairspray, taking care to keep the nozzle far enough away that the force won't damage delicate petals. Don't overdo it: A light coat is better than weighing them down with hairspray.
Hang the flowers upside down (in a well-ventilated space) until the hairspray dries completely.
Put your flowers in the prepared vase (with water, as usual).
Repeat every few days, as necessary.

You can also use hairspray to preserve fragile dried flowers—especially bouquets with particular sentimental value. They will hold up better when moved around, and colors will fade less over time. Here's a step-by-step:

Hang fresh flowers upside down in a cool, dark location until they are completely dry (about two to three weeks).
In a well-ventilated spot, evenly spray the surface of the flowers, making sure all the surface is covered, keep a good distance between the hairspray nozzle and the flowers so they aren't damaged.

Things Never to Spend a Small Fortune On

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 23:23:59 GMT

Do not over spend on the small things.

When it comes to design, throwing money at a project never hurts. But it’s far more impressed when people actually don't spend a small fortune on a room. So here is a laundry list of stuff not to go for broke on, because, there's no reason to.

Candles - You want those pretty Diptyque and Le Labo vessels in your shelfies. But if you light candles a lot or want to put a bunch throughout your home, you probably have no business spending $60+ on every one that you buy. Maybe splurge on a designer candle for your coffee table (or your bathtub area), and everywhere else, stick to less expensive ones. Candles are the perfect accent to instantly change the mood of any room.

Plants - So you're not getting a fiddle leaf fig or a big fern for a ten spot. But a couple of small succulents for your desk or windowsill? Definitely. Plants make a huge impact for not a ton of money.

Wine Glasses - They always inevitably get broken, and you don't want to feel precious about expensive ones when entertaining. Plus, the great thing is, you don't need to splurge in order to get ones that feel and look great. So maybe rethink the crystal and head straight to less expensive glass so if you break one, it's not a huge deal to replace it.

Simple Vases - Come to think of it, why bother buying expensive basic vases? Never spend more on super simple vases for flowers. Statement vases are a different story, but when just showcasing flowers or some nice greenery, a clear vase that doesn't draw attention or take away from the arrangement. You can hoard a few of these from floral arrangements you've been sent, if you have the space. Otherwise, hit up your local flower market, craft store or even dollar store for these.

Fresh Flowers - Don’t break the bank for bouquets either. Nothing is more refreshing than having fresh flowers in your home. Rather than going to a florist, go to your local supermarket and get a fresh bouquet of flowers. During the summer, you can also get gorgeous cut flowers at your local farmers markets.

Dinner Napkins, Table Linens, Glassware, Chargers, Placemats - Yep, you heard it here. The way to amass a collection of great dinner party accessories is to buy them at flea markets and tag sales. Don’t worry your table settings being mismatched just remember to keep them related by color and pattern. That’s how you can has a vast array to keep churning out such inspired table settings. Learn it, live it, love it.

Hardware - If you're making over a kitchen cabinets, a bathroom vanity or a hand-me-down dresser, find fun, funky and unique hardware to add personality. Check out the clearance binds at your local big box hardware stores or check out your local charity shop. You’ll be surprised at how stylish and affordable some hardware can be.

Pillow Inserts - Swapping out pillows can add instant upgrade to you room design. If you have already invested in down filled pillows reuse those inserts and just have new covers made. Remember, down inserts are a big expense in new pillows.

Design tricks that never fail to look amazing!

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 21:46:05 GMT

High end looks on a real-person's budget

Of course it's easy to get a home that looks like a million bucks if you s pend a million bucks. A high-end look on a real-person budget—that's a little bit more of a challenge. That's where these time-tested tricks come in.

Use Color To Your Advantage - One favorite tricks for getting a high-end look is to paint features, like fireplaces, and built-ins, the same color as the wall. The monochrome look draws the eye and feels very cohesive and intentional.

Make Standard Bookcases Look Built In - Dress basic bookcases with trim, crown and base or raised panel detail on ends, to give them a built-in look. Add unexpected detail…library ladder is an especially nice touch.

Dress Up Plain Windows - No need to go full blown draw drapes, simple side panels will do wonders to plain old windows. This is a small detail that can really elevate the look of a room. But don forget the drapery hardware, it’s like going out and forgetting your jewelry.

Use Expensive Tile In Small, High-impact Applications - One of a kind colorful, bold tile on a backsplash can elevate any project but those tiles can be pretty pricey. One budget-friendly solution is to use just a little bit of tile in a special place where you know it'll get a lot of attention, think behind a cooktop, bar area, detail in a shower.

Step Up Your Hardware Game - Details can really make the room, and one detail that's particularly important in a kitchen or bathroom (or anywhere you have cabinetry) is hardware. Always remember to be high price does not always mean great design, budget-friendly hardware is always an option.

Lay Inexpensive Tile In An Unexpected Pattern - Subway tile is one of the most inexpensive tile options out there, and there are so many different and unexpected patterns you can create with it. Think outside the box, change the direction of your tile, for a design that looks high-end but is actually quite budget friendly.

Design Tips are coming!

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 21:12:55 GMT

It's official, I have a blog and I know how to use it.

I have decided to publish some design tips that you can study and refer back too! Keep coming back to my site and check for updates right here!