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Some Guidelines to Light by!

chandelier and tableHow do I know how wide of a chandelier I should use?
A general guideline is to choose a chandelier that has a diameter equal to one-half the width of the table. The general appearance of the chandelier must be taken into account, too; that is, if it is a light airy piece it may be slightly larger than the standard.

How low should a chandelier be hung over a dining table?
Generally there should be 30″ between the bottom of the chandelier and the top of the table in a room with an 8′ ceiling. If the ceiling is higher, the distance between the bottom of the fixture and the table should increase slightly. Remember that the chandelier should provide light for the table, but not be so low as to block anyone’s line of vision when they are sitting at the table.

What guidelines should I follow in choosing a chandelier for a foyer or other room?
Add the room dimensions together. If the room is 14′ by 16′, add 14 + 16. The answer is 30, which means that your chandelier should be approximately 30″ in diameter. Again, remember that other factors such as the height of the ceiling may influence the proper size.

How high should I hang a wall sconce?
Generally, sconces should be placed on a wall 60″ from the floor.

The Easiest Way to Update Your Home.

We all want our homes to reflect who we are. It’s our own expression, our comfort zone, our own personal brand. At the center of it all, color plays a huge role in giving us that feeling we deserve. Be it wall paint, wall paper, fabrics or accessories, some of us can’t find a way to get there or what colors to choose.

The easiest way is to look in your closet. Most of us gravitate to certain colors that we feel comfortable with and happy surrounded by. Your closet probably reflects the colors that you feel good about and say the most about you. Take the main colors you find and incorporate shades of them as background colors or accents around your home (outside of your closet).

Color is the easiest way to change a home to make it personal and a real reflection of who you are. So, who are you?

If you’re stuck on your own interior palette and need advice, we at Megan Blake Design would love to help you navigate the sea of colors available to all areas of your home from paint, area rugs, linens, and art.

It’s National Poison Prevention Week!

As pet parents honor this week by assessing animal toxins in their homes, the ASPCA wants to remind us to take care when planning (or planting) their springtime gardens, too. Our furry friends can come in to alot of danger when accidentally ingesting or coming into contact with garden-related products, insecticides, weed killers and pet-toxic plants.So, let’s save our furry family members with some helpful and healthy tips from the ASPCA:

  • When designing and planting your green space, keep in mind that many popular outdoor plants—including sago palm, rhododendron and azalea—are toxic to cats and dogs, and may cause liver failure or heart problems. These are blooming now so keep puppies and elderly pups at bay.
  • When walking your dog, take care to keep Fido off the grass and away from toxic lawn and garden products. Cocoa mulch—a byproduct of chocolate—is especially problematic because it attracts dogs with its sweet smell and can cause them gastrointestinal distress or more serious neurological problems if consumed in large quantities.
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Design Tips for Outdoor Living Spaces.

When decorating an outdoor or indoor living space, I aim to create a seamless flow between both spaces. Many homeowners consider their outdoor living areas an extension of their homes and spend a great deal of time under the skies dining, entertaining, or relaxing outdoors in warmer weather. My theory is that the outdoor space should reflect the home’s interior design so the areas blend together harmoniously.

When planning your outdoor space, consider the following or contact me for professional guidance:

modern outdoor patio and fireplace design

Compatibility Both Ways. Your outdoor furnishings should be compatible with the architecture and aesthetics of your home and the surrounding landscaping. When planning your budget for your outdoor living areas, be sure to account for furnishings. If your interior has iron accents and furnishings, bring that element to the outdoor space. This will keep the eye moving and will make the home seem so much larger.

Create Outdoor Rooms. Think about how you will use your outdoor living areas and then design it by the way you prefer to use it. If you like to cook, create an outdoor kitchen and nearby dining area close to the house for ease of service. If you like to relax, hang a hammock further away from the bustle and noise for sweet silence. I’m big into a few chairs around a fire pit for immediate and cozy lounge feel. You’ll see the transformation.

Reflect Your Style. Add patterns, color and textures to your liking through accent pillows, linens upholstery and event pottery. Mix solids and stripes with florals or patterns for an eclectic vibe. A simple fountain, wind chimes, or herb gardens can be the right relaxation you need after a day at the office.

With warmer weather around the corner, now is a good time to think about how you would like to use your outdoor space this Spring. Delivery times vary by manufacturer and it’s never to late to start.

Outdoor Week at the Washington Design Center.

Later this month, I’m heading to Outdoor Week at the Washington Design Center. This week-long learning of outdoor spaces and landscapes is all about design and outdoor-friendly furnishings and accessories. Having worked in plant nurseries and landscape design firms in the past and now as a professional designer, I have a hankering for outdoor design. And today’s 60-plus degree temps in the DC area have me pining for some projects! Any takers?

Outdoor Design Furniture Contemporary cool pool The weather’s slowly warming up, so it is now to start thinking about plans for updating your patio, terrace or deck. And with some more great design ideas from Outdoor Week, I hope to make someones summer fun!

Learn how my design service can add to your outdoor space, Also, check out my design blog’s outdoor category for posts on all great things outside the walls.

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