Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/179241
Thrive dwell sTriKe a Balance JuST-righT deSign + dÉCOr 32 brava magazine | OCTOber 2013 "You've probably been in those rooms where the furniture is way too big for [its] size," says Paul Dominie, an acclaimed interior designer and president of MEEP Design and Consulting. "Or you've got too many patterns going on. Or you've got two colors that are trying to fight for dominance." Maybe you even have some of those rooms in your own home. It's true; sometimes when decorating or remodeling, we get carried away with our favorite colors, fabrics and knickknacks and forget the bigger picture. We lose sight of our ultimate goal: a balanced, functional space. So how to achieve equilibrium? "Always trust your eye," says Dominie. "It'll say to you, 'This is not warm enough,' or, 'This is too busy,' or, 'I need one more piece of furniture.' Trust your opinion of what you're seeing." OK, so there is a designer's instinct within all of us, after all. If you're still feeling unsure, here are more expert tips from Dominie. conFlicT resoluTion A room isn't balanced if it doesn't serve everyone. Usually, decor re-do and remodels must work not just for one person, but for a couple or family. How do you reconcile conflicting goals for one space? Look for innovative solutions that make everyone happy. Example: During a bathroom remodel, Dominie faced the challenge of pleasing both a body builder—who wanted a spacious shower so he wouldn't bump into the glass—and his petite wife, who feared she'd freeze if he got his way. Dominie's fix? Install in-floor heating in a large shower. "They both got what they wanted," he explains. see The liGhT Lighting is one of the most important factors for the mood of a space. "[It's] like a fourth dimension," Dominie says. Match your lighting—both natural and electric— with the feeling you want, whether it's warm and cozy or bright and airy. color Wheel Incorporating color can be tricky—it can either liven up a space or overpower it. Dominie recommends adding punches of vibrant color to a neutral base through accessories like towels, vases, lampshades and artwork. Or paint on a vivid hue, but only on one wall or portion of a wall, for a harmonious balance. Example: Dominie fitted a client's living room with a bold statement piece—a illuSTraTiOn by amanda Funk, niaPa builiding PlannerS Can you spot the imbalance? The mantelpiece accessory is so large it overwhelms the room.