With New Year's Eve upon us, I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite spaces that sparkle just as brightly as that ball will at midnight tonight :)
 
Notice the reflective glass, tiles, mirrors, and lighting that all help to bounce light throughout these spaces. A little shine can really dress up a room and create a more elegant, glamorous look. 
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Wishing you all a happy, healthy & beautiful new year! 

Check back every Friday in 2011 for more design inspiration, tips and advice!

TGIF :)

 
 

Decorating your first apartment can be overwhelming, so I've gathered up some inspiration photos and tips for any new apartment or condo owner looking to transform their blank canvas!

1. Paint if you can: If your complex allows you to paint, by all means do! Color enhances your mood and is a great pick-me-up from the depressing builder's white they give you. A color on your walls also allows artwork and wall decor to really POP! Your space will instantly feel cozier!
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This dark gray paint provides the perfect backdrop for white ceramic accessories and a colorful piece of art!

2. Oversized Mirrors & Artwork: Large-scale wall decor makes a bigger statement than lots of little pictures and prints. Think of larger items and you'll need less of them!
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This apartment bedroom shows how simply adding 1 oversized mirror and 1 large frame are all that's necessary to complete the look.
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One large, mirror is all that's needed in this bedroom to make a unique design statement.

3. Group frames together If you have a collection of photographs or prints you'd like to display, you can make more of an impact by grouping them together. Hang prints together tightly with minimal spacing and go for oversized matting and identical frames for a rich, gallery look.
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Different size compositions still look unified with thin, black frames
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All white mats and frames give a super chic look

4. Skip the matching bed & bath sets. Instead of the "bed in a bag" and coordinating bathroom sets, opt for simple, solid sheets and towels, then pick the accent color of your choice! 

In the bedroom, keep your bedding neutral, and bring in a color scheme through pillows, drapes, lamps and accessories.
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Loving this bedroom's color scheme of black & white with accents of blue. So chic!
In the bathroom, look for crisp white or gray towels and rugs with a simple touch of color. And if you can, avoid the matching counter accessories, instead opt for clear glass jars to hold cotton balls, q-tips, etc. and then find ceramic pieces in your accent color for water cups and toothbrush holders.
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Now this is a grown-up bathroom. White towels with a darker shade of blue tie in the wall color without overdoing it.

5. Tie it all together: Whether it's your inspiration or the final touch, you'll need some pieces to unify your space. This could be an area rug, a great piece of art, a colorful print for pillows, or a grouping of accessories. Consider all these items in addition to your wall color and upholstery to have a well-balanced room :)
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The colorful canvas and ceramic vases bring this cheery living room's color scheme to life.

With these tips in hand, you should be well on your way to making your first apartment a home of your own!


 
 
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Looking for a creative gift idea this holiday? Consider gifting my in-home consultation package as a thoughtful way to help a friend or family member improve their home with professional design advice! Happy Holidays from TGI :)

 
 
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With Christmas right around the corner and decorating season well underway, I thought I'd share some great, new holiday decorating ideas.

By sticking to a simpler color palette (bright red & green don't always need apply), using fresh, seasonal greens and utilizing the "less is more" approach, these spaces achieve an updated holiday look without lacking the charm.

And while most of you might go out for a real tree, consider also incorporating real, fresh cedar or fir garlands as well to enhance your mantles, stairwells, and add that unbeatable Christmas aroma :) 

Happy Holidays from TGI!


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