Interior Design and You
in tough times
by Bill Tindall

Well there is no big secret that things have not been good out there for the last year. If you are still in your home, get comfortable because you’re probably there for awhile. You’re among the lucky ones. If you find yourself in a new living situation, you’re not alone. In both of these situations I think it is important that we remember this too will pass and there will be a tomorrow and day after, most likely.

Our homes, no matter size or type, are where we retreat to rest and get ready to face that big world out there. That is why creating a space that is nurturing and relaxing to you is so important. This can be done on so many levels, and it is probably the single best thing you can do to improve your spirit and make life better. This can vary from something as small as some nice candles that you light when come home at night, to a great chair that you sit in to unwind.

 If you are down sizing, take a realistic inventory of the space you are to occupy and only put in it what will fit. Look at your new space not as a compromise but as a new way of living, of letting go of the past and opening the door to a new life that starts today. Invest in a couple of hours with a designer and get them to help you decide what will work. They will help you put your things to their best use. Most designers have an hourly fee and will want to help you make your space beautiful.

Think outside the box and give new life to your things. A chest that once was in a bedroom could become a side piece in the living room or hold linens in the dining room. If you are single, as I am, there may be no great need for a dining area. I took my glass dining table and used it for a desk with a big chair from the living room. On it I placed a big lamp, a plant, framed pictures and a tray of liquor decanters. Hello “Masterpiece Theater.”

I guess what I am saying is, have fun with your space and romanticize it. Don’t be so serious. It’s a room and it’s yours. If you find you need to get rid of things, let them go. Consignment stores probably get the best price in the best length of time. Realize you’re not going to get what you paid for the piece. The joy you received from it can become burdensome if your hang on to it and cram it in the corner.

Suze Orman on one of her recent shows said something about our times that I took to heart. I paraphrase this. “Stop crying about what you had. Embrace and love what you have. Look to tomorrow and make it a better day.”  That can start by picking up the papers and rearranging the furniture. I know this is kinda crazy coming from a designer and purveyor of beautiful things,but be practical about what you need. I can see the interest already from the husbands out there. What I mean is, think about your space. Plan it and fill it with things that truly have meaning and give you pleasure. A designer can be very helpful in helping plan that room and making it the best it can be with whatever your budget affords. Designers have a gift that, when used to its potential, make peoples lives better.