Sometimes the simplest changes can create the greatest impact in your home – and adding mirrors to your design scheme is one of them. I’m not just referring to wall hung mirrors – although they are always beautiful – but introducing strategically placed mirrored surfaces in your foyer, kitchen, bath, living room, dining room or bedroom.  Reflective surfaces brighten a space and create that extra layer of sparkle and texture, at the same time visually increasing a sense of space.

Here are some stunning ideas for adding that spectacular look to your room.

Foyer

• Mirroring the adjacent wall to the entry with a large oversized frame will transform a dark and dingy foyer into a bright and spectacular space.
• Or take it a step further and adhere some beveled-mirrored tiles to the entire wall with a beautiful glass chandelier suspended from above.
• If large mirrors aren’t for you then consider a mirrored chest at the entry with your favorite piece of art above highlighted with a crystal or glass table lamp and finished with an exquisite arrangement of fresh flowers.

Kitchen

• Add some instant light and reflection in your kitchen with a mirrored backsplash.  Do you have a killer view of the ocean or a spectacular English garden?  What better way than to highlight it and integrate the interior with the exterior for a panoramic view.
• For added texture apply either glass or mirrored mosaic tiles to the backsplash and you’ll still achieve that shimmer and shine.

Bath

• The use of multiple mirrored surfaces will open up a small space and create a sense of elegance and glamour. Consider mirroring the entire wall from the top of the countertop material all the way to the ceiling.  It will visually double the size of a smaller bathroom and reflect the natural light.
• A mirror placed across from the bathroom window also adds depth to the room.
• Reflective backsplashes also work and will create a similar effect or antique mirrored tiles.

Living Room

• In a more traditional home apply mirrored sections on the walls in framed in molding and paneling for a crisp classic style – enhancing your furniture and creating a bright beautiful space.
• For a more contemporary flair introduce a crisp and cool fireplace surround to double the glow of the fire when lit.
• Or add some beveled mirrors or tiles with glass rosette insets for a more traditional style.
• Free standing glass screens will definitely add some drama along with a mirror mounted over a mirrored surface to provide you with a greater sense of detail and depth.

Bedroom

• Whether you have a built in closet or a French wardrobe, mirror your closet doors to not only expand the light and space but to also provide you a sense of elegance
• Introduce mirrored nightstands by adding glamour to your storage.

Incorporating mirrors into your interior design plans is an easy way to add light, space and airiness to your room . For larger rooms, it adds a new dimension to the space. Play around with different mirror shapes and reflective surfaces.  I know you’ll find the perfect solution to spicing up the ambiance of every room in your house.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

I was having a conversation the other day with a friend about the pros and cons of staying or leaving during the construction phase a home renovation project.

Obviously it depends on the scope of your remodel, but the truth is if you’re planning on living at home during the entire renovation process, be prepared to make some serious life adjustments – and embrace your new (yet temporary) lifestyle!

Here are a few things to consider:

If You Stay

Pros

• See progress and attend meetings easily.
• Handle challenges quickly.
• Avoid added cost in renting.
• Minimal disruption of family routines.
• Monitor security of property.

Cons

• Putting up with noise, mess, and lack of privacy.
• Need to manage stress of disruption and disorganization.
• Project may take longer due to contractor needing to work around you.
• Health concerns.
• Quality of life temporarily compromised.
• Relationships will be challenged.
• Lack of space for family to live comfortably.

If You Go

Pros

• Easier on contractor and sub trades to get work done.
• Subcontractors can perform more efficiently without being scrutinized.
• Don’t have to put up with construction mess and disruption of house.
• Less stress, easier on relationships.

Cons

• Not on site to oversee progress and problems.
• Need to trust contractor.
• Disorientation in relocating.
• Financial burden if project takes longer than estimated.

Should you decide to stay – there is a lot you can do to survive – and thrive during this adventure—and even keep your sanity and relationships intact.

• Be flexible.
• Be patient.
• Be realistic.
• Be understanding.

Your home renovation may not be a walk in the park, but it’s very important to realize that your mental, emotional, and physical health is most important. It’s okay to keep your head in the clouds, but make sure your feet stay planted firmly on the ground.

Your general contractor and subs are more than likely managing more than one job at a time, so you may not see him or his crew exactly when you expect to. Those  trades you expect to see on any given day—for whatever reason may not show up at all.

Stuff happens! Schedules change! Delays are inevitable!

That doesn’t mean you sit idly by and have them take advantage. After all, you hired the most reputable, competent, and reliable contractor out there – right? And contrary to public opinion, your extreme makeover won’t be completed in a week—like on TV!

The unfortunate reality is—if the contractor says your project will take six months, be prepared—and double it!

You may as well sit back, have a glass of wine, and try to enjoy the ride.  If you’re prepared mentally, emotionally, and physically then it’s easier to survive the demo and construction phases. These are just some ideas I’ve found over the years in this business that worked for my clients and I think will make your renovation experience more manageable.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Small spaces can be big on style. You just need to know how to implement some tricks of the trade to give it that look of grandeur.

Older homes can be loaded with detail and charm, but many tend to be quite compartmentalized – with one small room after another.  Creating that extra space doesn’t have to be that costly if you creatively repurpose and reconfigure some of those existing rooms to gain that extra square footage – where you really need it.

Here are some great tips for living large in a small space.

Space Planning.

• Know how your room must function for you now and later.  The more flexible the space the greater the longevity of having it work for you through the years.
• Plan traffic flow to increase convenience from room to room.
• Have your spaces relate to each other by creating a sense of flow, visually and spatially.
• Expand your room by creating an opening in a wall adjoining two spaces or add new and more expansive windows flooding the interior with natural light and inviting the outdoors in.
• Recognize the circulation patterns within your small space and make sure you can move about without obstacles blocking you.
• Circulate the traffic off to one side of your room – not through the space.
• Use every inch of space have – don’t waste any!

Maximize Storage.

• Use the storage beneath your stairs to build in a closet, shelving unit or bar area.

• Add recessed shelving and niches anywhere you have ample wall space to do so – always keeping the architecture of your home in mind.  Built-in china cabinets in the dining room or a stone ledge over your pedestal sink in the main bath will provide added storage and surfaces for those tighter spaces.
• Add window seats or banquettes nestled into the corners of your bedrooms, living rooms or kitchens with easily accessible drawers for storage.
• Use an archway for additional book storage and build in additional shallow floating shelves for added detail and storage.

Add Detail and Character.

• A small space doesn’t need to be a bland one!
• Define it by introducing some architectural elements such as arches, columns, new moldings, wainscoting, and even chair rails to your walls – and beams or molding to your ceiling.
• Adding crown moldings to your ceilings will add a greater sense of volume and depth to your space.
• Mirrored wall panels framed with architectural moldings will provide a brighter and more expansive feel and create some sparkle.
• It’s all about creating a warm and beautiful environment – no matter the size of the room.

Minimize and Categorize Accessories.

• Purchase larger scaled, more substantial pieces to create a stronger impact in your cozy space rather than displaying dozens of little knickknacks.

• To really highlight your favorites, gather similar pieces together and cluster them in odd numbers, e.g., sets of three or five, to create a collection.  Whether they are placed on side tables or in shelving or display cases, rotate your collections throughout the seasons.
• To achieve a sense of balance, place the largest piece in the center and have the smaller ones radiate around it.
• Re-frame all your family photos in similar finishes so the photos pop, rather than the frames.

Highlight With Lighting.

• Overlapping pools of light can create drama and provide an amazing effect over the entire space.
• Not only will decorative lamps and wall sconces add a decorative touch to a room, they can enhance the design and provide a sense of sophistication to the elements you’d like to highlight.
• For general lighting in every room, I like to specify dimmers to control the mood and transform the space.
• In built- in cabinetry and shelving, small halogen puck lights create a sense of drama and accent accessories.
• Install your gorgeous dining room chandelier no more than 36” to 42” inches from the top of your table to the underside of the fixture.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Whether you’re doing a major kitchen renovation or a moderate upgrade, planning a kitchen remodel can create an extremely stressful and challenging environment for everyone in the household.  So before you hire the contractor or pick up a hammer consider these valuable insider tips to help you make the best choices when tackling your kitchen re-design and avoid costly mistakes.

Do Your Research.

• Do your due diligence and educate yourself on what’s out there in the design world and marketplace. There are an endless array of cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, appliances and flooring materials on the market – so get to know what works best for you.
• Grab some kitchen design magazines, and focus on the styles of kitchens and interiors you’re drawn to. It doesn’t matter if it’s a window style, a cabinet detail, or a paint color you’re in love with. Just tear out the pages and make notes indicating what you specifically love about it. Is it the 6-burner stainless steel stove, those gorgeous French doors, or the overall kitchen layout?
• Create an inspiration file and use this as your starting point.  Once you know what you like you will be more decisive in the planning stage and that will save you time and money.

Resist The Latest Fads.

• Fads in products and interior design don’t have the longevity of an established style – or even a new trend – which could have a long-term influence.
• For example: the glossy photo of the turquoise French Oven that you fell madly in love should stay on the pages of the magazine.  Ask yourself: Will you still love that range in 10 years? A color like that will instantly date your kitchen – so opt for more timeless neutral colors and finishes.
• Keep all the big-ticket items such as cabinetry, appliances and countertops more elegant and timeless – but dress up the backsplash for punch.  If it’s that green apple-tini color you’re craving, paint out a wall or two and install some accent pendant lamps over the island  to give your kitchen the color infusion you need.

Efficiency Is Key.

• Design your kitchen for the way you really live and don’t sacrifice function for design. 
• Of course your new kitchen should look spectacular but not at the expense of overall efficiency.  Make it a working kitchen.
• Your kitchen layout should be top of your list of priorities and should be designed with precision planning and great attention to detail – making every inch count.

Don’t Do It Yourself.

• I know, I know.  You always hear that if you DIY you’ll save a lot of M-O-N-E-Y. 
• The reality is that DIY projects typically take 3 to 4 times longer than a highly trained contractor to do the job – and eventually 20% of ambitious home re-modelers will need to call for some professional back up – not just to complete the work, but repair the damage that the homeowners themselves have caused.
• If your kitchen renovation is more than staining, re-facing or painting your existing cabinets (and you’re not that handy) then hire a professional to do the job.

Hire The Right Contractor.

• I’d highly recommend you give serious thought to hiring a General Contractor (GC) when your kitchen projects are more complicated than simply refinishing or painting.
• If your job involves tearing down walls, building new ones, or relocating and supplementing any plumbing and electrical systems, then you should definitely consider hiring a general contractor. While most general contractors do fabulous work and come highly recommended, I’ve found there are still a lot of unscrupulous characters out there! So be careful – get references and check out their work!   The last thing you want is to get ripped off by the very person you entrusted to deliver your ultimate dream kitchen.
• Do your best to find the right contractor for you, so all the time and money you spend planning, budgeting, and designing your kitchen will be put into the right hands.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

I’m really thrilled to have one of my design projects featured as one of the “Best Looks For 2010” in the current fall issue of Distinctive Kitchen Solutions.  It’s a fabulous magazine full of inspirational ideas for your kitchen and bath remodeling projects.

It’s so important to educate yourself on the materials, finishes, and appliances available to you whether you’re planning a full-blown kitchen remodel or a simple upgrade. Spend some time now thinking about what inspires you, what moves you, and what speaks to you?

Do your research, grab some magazines and focus on the styles of homes and interiors you’re drawn to. It doesn’t matter if it’s a window style, a cabinet detail, or a paint color you’re in love with. Just tear out the pages and make notes indicating what you love about it. Be specific. Is it the 6-burner stainless steel stove, those gorgeous entry doors, or the overall kitchen layout?

Distinctive Kitchen Solutions magazine will not only inspire you – it will help educate you so that you’ll make the best choices – before you buy.

So grab your copy at the newsstands, Borders, Barnes & Nobles or your local supermarket and get started on planning your kitchen renovation today.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Back in February of this year I wrote an article entitled: The Top 10 “Must Have” Features In Today’s Homes. The results were based on a survey taken by Market Watch a consumer group at the Las Vegas Home Builder’s Show.  Number one on the “Must Have” list was Large Kitchens With Islands.

No matter how many islands I have incorporated into my kitchen designs over the years– no two are ever alike.  It’s my job to ensure that each one takes on a personality of its own and compliments the kitchen and the overall architecture of the space.  Depending on the overall floor plan the island can be designed in a multitude of shapes, sizes, levels, and finishes making it truly unique to your home.

A Kitchen island is a valuable asset in today’s homes.  It acts as the central meeting place within the kitchen itself, which we all recognize to be – the heart of the home.  This multi-functional piece of furniture wears several hats over the course of the day.  It can act as a food prep zone, family gathering spot, homework center and mobile office, just to name a few.

Typically my clients expect these islands to meet a specific set of criteria.

Here are the most common requests.

• Uninterrupted surface area for food prep space.
• An additional sink with disposal.
• Extra storage drawers and doors.
• Location for warming drawers.
• Double sided storage accessible from both sides.
• Comfortable seating/stools for 4.

Kitchen Islands can be successfully incorporated into many types of layouts – of course depending on your overall space.  Islands tend to work best in these 3 types of kitchen plans:

• A Galley Kitchen. In a smaller galley-type kitchen, removing a wall and opening it up to a neighboring space will allow for a perfect island application.
• An L-Shaped Kitchen. A very popular layout for the work triangle and is a perfect layout for adding an island to your kitchen plans (If you have the luxury of space).
• A U-Shaped Kitchen. Again providing you have the space between counter tops and is open to another room, the U shape kitchen is a very efficient layout and an island would only enhance the overall function of your kitchen.

I want to leave you with a few last minute tips when re-designing your kitchen and incorporating an island into the plans.

• Utilize different materials, surfaces and cabinetry on your island – creating a more unique piece of furniture and focal point within the space.  It keeps the eye interested.
• Island sizes range from +36” wide x +72” long – depending on the space you have.
• If possible allow for at least 42” between countertop and island counter top.  (36” is minimal – but work-able if you’re tight on space).
• Also allow 42” clearance for aisles and traffic patterns.
• Island heights can vary as well and be multi-leveled.  They can be designed at counter top height of 36” with a dropped eating area of 30” in height, or an elevated bar area of 44” high.  The choice is yours.

Renovating your kitchen and implementing an island into your space will undoubtedly increase your home’s value and could yield you a return on investment of 75% – 90%.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Dining spaces can be formal, casual, or a combination of both. Many traditional homes have both a formal dining room and an informal eat-in kitchen.

When planning for a remodel of this area, whether you’re converting an existing space or adding on, consider:

• The size of your family
• The number of guests you typically invite to dinner parties
• The types of occasions when you’ll use the room.

These facts will help guide you in planning the size of your dining space, the layout, and the furniture you’ll ultimately choose. Also consider traffic flow and especially the proximity to the kitchen for serving meals.

Your dining room is also a great space to store extra-large serving pieces that don’t typically fit in your kitchen. Whether you incorporate built-in cabinetry or individual storage pieces, make sure to provide enough clearance for cabinet doors to open fully. When planning lighting, consider all the uses: dramatic enough for elegant dinner parties and bright enough for your kids’ birthday parties.

10 Tips To Consider When Designing A More Formal Dining Room

1. Add character in your dining room by adding simple wood panels, moldings, or beams on your ceiling.
2. For a more traditional feel and layered look, install some paneled wainscoting and beefy crown molding around the perimeter of your room.
3. Increase the size of your baseboard by adding another piece of molding to the existing material to make it look chunkier and more substantial.
4. If you’re lucky enough to have hardwood flooring beneath that old green carpeting, then simply re-finish and stain it in a deep rich tone.
5. When renovating your dining room, check the plans to make sure your existing furniture will fit back in to the new space.
6. Rectangular dining tables are best suited for rectangular dining rooms. If you need to seat 8 to 10 people, the recommended room size is a minimum of 10’6” x 15’.
7. Square dining spaces look fantastic with either square or round tables. Rounds are my personal favorite as they provide for a much more intimate dining experience. For 8 to 10 people, the recommended room size for an 8 ft. diameter table typically is an 18’6” square space.
8. Provide a focal point in the dining room either by enhancing an existing fireplace or creating a new vignette by introducing a beautiful hutch for storage, and flank your favorite piece of art above with a pair of colorful lamps.
9. Use a combination of light sources. In addition to a central fixture or chandelier, it’s tremendously effective to add some recessed halogen light fixtures to highlight artwork, or any other key pieces—and your crystal and silverware will sparkle like diamonds.
10. Hang your chandelier anywhere from 36” to 42” from the tabletop (from the top of the table to the underside of the fixture). Keep the diameter of the fixture 9”- 12” smaller than the width of your table.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

I met with a wonderful couple last week to discuss their home renovation plans.  Their home, which is nestled in the hills of a lush canyon, has a view that is nothing short of spectacular.  The house itself – is quite the opposite – as they inherited all kinds of issues from the previous owners.   This project will require a tremendous amount of re-planning, renovation work and TLC to create the indoor/outdoor living environment the homeowners want to achieve.  One of the areas in dire need of help is their kitchen.  I first had to convince them that existing space needed much more than simply a new countertop and backsplash.

So when is the best time to upgrade your kitchen?

1. Poor Kitchen Layout.

Analyze the overall space and identify your daily struggles and challenges – then devise a plan that accommodates your lifestyle. Are you constantly running back and forth while preparing meals?  Are you single, a couple, a family of five, or are you the next Iron Chef?  If you’re that gourmet chef then you’ll need to ensure that you have plenty of surface area, storage and power in your appliances.  If your kitchen needs to be multi-functional for your busy family and overall layout is no longer working for you – then it is time to upgrade your kitchen!

2. Antiquated Appliances.

If your oven needs twice as much time to cook that brisket than the recipe recommends, your old leaky dishwasher with the rusted base is cooking the food onto your dishes rather than cleaning them, or the ultra deep refrigerator is leaking Freon and very outdated in color and style, then it’s time to replace them!

The best solution is to update all of your appliances at the same time to give it a cohesive look.  Consider incorporating stainless steel into your updated kitchen, as that is now the new standard in kitchen appliances.

3. Cabinetry That’s Falling Apart.

Do the doors on your cabinets refuse to stay closed and are they completely wonky and uneven when they are?  Is the paint chipping or the finish rubbing off?  Or maybe the drawers are sticking and unable to open or close anymore.  If you’re constantly frustrated with the condition of your cabinetry and your constant frustration then do yourself a favor and commit to a new cabinet design and style.  Do your research and find the cabinet style that speaks to you.

4. Cracked Countertops And Flooring.

Take a good look around your kitchen.  If you have any type of chipped countertop tiles, cracks in your porcelain sink, worn finishes, and burns on your countertop surfaces, then it is time to re-think the overall design and finishes of your kitchen.  Don’t forget your flooring as well.  Is it hardwood that can be re-finished or another material that is definitely showing its years of wear and tear? Are there gashes in the flooring or any broken tiles or splitting seams?  These are signs of materials needing to be replaced and updated.

5. Increasing The Value Of Your Home.

In the US we spend $15 billion on kitchen renovations alone.  This space tends to be the one room in the house that speaks to buyers on an emotional level.   You could typically recoup 80%-90% of your investment when you go to sell your home with a remodeled kitchen.  But beware: If you have done some minor kitchen updating and the space still has an inefficient floor plan and layout, simple quick fixes will not camouflage the problem.  Always update before selling.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Would you say your overall design style sleek and chic?  Do you enjoy the true architecture of a space with its linear simplicity rather that an overly adorned and accessorized space?  If you’d like to translate your modern vision into your Master Bath here are a few design ideas to help get you started.
1.  Cabinetry

• When it comes time to selecting the design of your cabinetry lean toward clean, crisp and streamlined furniture.
• To create a lighter and sleek bathroom environment consider cantilevered cabinetry secured to the wall creating a minimal look to the vanity piece.  Create some drama with strip lighting added to the bottom side of the cabinet – which will cast a warm glow to the floor below.
• Provide additional built in wall-to-wall storage elsewhere in the bathroom to compensate for the reduced storage in the vanity area.
• Deep dark rich woods evoke a sense of warmth to the clean lines of contemporary design.

2.  Fixtures

• Crisp clean and sleek white fixtures speak to the contemporary/modern design.
• If space allows introduce one of the hottest trends – a free- standing bathtub.  They are available in all shapes and sizes and nothing creates a more dramatic focal point in the bathroom than an exquisite free-standing tub. Simply position it in front of a spectacular picture window with a breathtaking view as the backdrop.

3.  Surfaces and Materials

• Utilize solid surfaces for countertops, whether quartz, limestone, granite, concrete or glass to give it a clean contemporary look.  Keep the edges simple and square for easy maintenance and sophisticated style.
• Always introduce an interesting backsplash material in contrast to the counter top color and material.  Whatever the surface I like to apply it on all walls from floor to ceiling.  It creates instant architecture and adds great detail and drama to the space.
• Glass tile, mosaic, stone or ceramic details are just a few of the highly decorative backsplash products out on the market today that create a sense of modern style.
• Keep geometry in mind when selecting the material for your contemporary backsplash.  Consider tile shapes that are rectangular, oversized, or small mosaics to create detail in the pattern of the application.  If the tile is oversized and rectilinear install it in a brick pattern. If it’s shape is longer and thinner then stacking the tile creates a very interesting modern vibe.  Stay away from the common square tile in any size.

4.  Luxurious Shower

• Create a steam shower with multiple rain heads, and body sprays.  If your budget allows, add chromatherapy and aromatherapy to your master bath wish list as well.  These fittings represent the epitome of modern luxury design.  Don’t forget a built in bench and access panel to hide the steam system.
• Design a full seamless glass enclosure from floor to ceiling and finish the interior with complimentary mosaics or stone tile to set it apart from the rest of the space.  This glass enclosure creates a more visually open space within the overall space.

5.  Accessories

• Remember to keep clutter and display to a minimum.
• Accessorize with towels in a bright color for punch or stainless steel and woods. Keep everything to a minimum and clutter free.
• Select chrome, nickel or silver toned drawer/door pulls, towel bars, towel hooks and paper holders for sparkle.
• Frame vanity mirrors in woods or silver tones – in similar finishes to the other accessories adorning your modern bath.

Draw the bath and enjoy the modern luxuries of your new space.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

I think it’s safe to say that life can be quite stressful these days.  Between work, children, finances, carpools and all your other daily activities, it only makes sense that your home should be a place of refuge and provide you with a great sense of calm the moment you walk through the door.

We yearn for order and serenity at the end of each day – a place that neutralizes the daily chaos of life and allows you to unplug from the external stresses of the day.

• Does your home provide you with that haven?
• Is it peaceful and relaxing?
• Is it systematized and well organized?
• Is your home well appointed and aesthetically pleasing?  Or do you still feel some stress– even when you’re trying to relax?

Living in a cluttered and disorganized environment tends to create stress, anxiety and drains your energy without even realizing it.  That is why providing well-designed storage is fundamental.  Analyze, prioritize and maximize your home by eliminating the clutter – and provide some special places to conceal, organize and display the items you really want and need.

Here are 10 simple storage solutions to help eliminate the clutter and get you to a peaceful place.

1. Utilize the void space beneath your stairs and design a storage closet, built in shelving unit or even add a sleek powder room.
2. Maximize every inch of your kitchen with organized cabinet interiors.  From pull out spice racks to built in pantries. Everything should have its place.
3. Provide a pantry system complete with shelving, door racks and pullout drawers all concealed behind the integrated kitchen cabinetry.
4. Design a beautiful and highly functional banquette with large spacious drawers.  It’s perfect for cozy meals and storing all kinds of supplies.
5. Add recessed shelving anywhere there is ample wall space to do so.  Always keep your home’s architecture in mind when designing those living room niches, bathroom shelving or floor to ceiling bookshelves in the family room.
6. Built-in storage is perfect for every room of your home and allows you to display all your favorite collections, and conceal the everyday mess.
7. Bedroom or living room window seats with storage drawers below will provide you with ample space and create a cozy and inviting reading corner.
8. In your home office/library wrap the entire room (even around the windows and doors) with custom cabinetry to store books, binders and your favorite objects d’art.  Remember you only need 12” deep shelving.
9. In the master bedroom build in a wall-to-wall headboard complete with lighting, shelving and night tables for that integral look.
10. Schedule a closet company to inventory of all your clothes, shoes, belts and handbags and to layout each and every bedroom closet throughout your home.  It will be the most liberating exercise of your life and you’ll maximize every inch of space at the same time.

Implement some of these de-cluttering principles and you’ll be coming to home to a peaceful refuge.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.