Before You Design Interior Spaces, Do This Important Thing First

Before interior designers begin to create a concept and prepare preliminary drawings, they must first decide on a theme. The professionals know a good design starts with a theme. 

The style of choice can range from minimalist to elegant country, eclectic, contemporary, ethnic, Art Deco, traditional, feng shui, etc. Once this is ascertained, the interior design process can begin.


A living room theme.

A stylish theme for a living area. (Image used under license from 123rf.com)

They then begin the technical aspect: sketch floor plans, elevations, furniture placements and 3D representations. Furnishing, finishes, and other elements are noted.

But if you plan to upgrade a space or give your interior a makeover, employing the services of a professional interior designer is pricey and in many instances, unnecessary. Why? Because you can do a lot of the tasks required, yourself. You don’t need professional skills to apply clever and transforming interior design tricks.

Choosing a Theme

You should pick a theme with a lot of thought. But the good thing? There are no rigid rules concerning choices.
  1. Do you live alone or live with a partner?
  2. Do you have young kids still scampering around?
  3. Is your home full of occupants?
  4. Are you ready to ensure that you can maintain the aesthetics of the style?
If you have a sense of designing and decorating, then, go ahead and create a unique theme; a mix of the old and new works great. Combine no more than two themes (except for eclectic styling). Anything above that will be an overkill. But make one more dominant over the other. 

For example, a dominant modern theme with splashes of vintage-inspired elements will give a striking look. You'll love the nobody-else-has-this-style feel.

Plan to use elements that'll enhance your theme. Think finishes (floor, walls, and ceiling), colour scheme, artwork, textiles, patterns, and textures. There are also window treatments, lighting, and decor items that translate the theme perfectly.

Hire an Interior Designer or DIY?

After you've decided on a theme and (importantly) your colour scheme, you can begin your upgrade/makeover project. A good thing, we now live in a DIY era, so you can be your own interior designer and save tons of money.

Of course, there are certain tasks you cannot implement without contractors. For instance, if your upgrade requires some wiring, you need a licensed electrician. And if it involves a kitchen upgrade, you'll need a licensed plumber. You may hire one from your local home improvement stores. 

Work at your own pace. Know what you can do and hire someone to do what you can’t. And if you don’t have that lump sum of money available, you can do your interior design work in phases.

Articles of interest

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9 Eclectic Style Mistakes People Make

Looking for a Creative Headboard Idea? Use a Statement Piece as Your Bedhead.

Using decorative metal (or wood) art is another creative headboard idea.
Using decorative metal (or wood) art is another creative headboard idea. 
(Image created by viryabo@polyvore)


Would you like to own an impressive headboard without breaking the bank? A statement piece that ups your bedroom aesthetics and creates a focal point for the room?

Today, the average cost of a not-so-great headboard can run into hundreds of dollars. Nothing eye-catching or unique either. Just some plain old wood (or upholstered) bedhead style.

Now, let's talk modern, abstract, and creative, something artsy and conversational - metal art headboard.

This may be more expensive than using drapes, decals, or upholstered panels but it'll give you a fantastic dramatic look.

Metal art ideas range from simple wirework and rod configurations to intricately sculptured sheet metal artworks. It can be installed on the wall above the bedhead position at least 18 inches above the mattress.

If you have an eye and feel for design, browse online shops (eBay, Amazon) garage sales, or local (flea) markets. You'll be pleasantly surprised to see cheap/affordable finds you can improvise and turn into headboard features.
 

Tips
  • Allow the artwork to span the bedhead and bedside cabinet positions.
  • Use abstract or free-form designs to create art forms.
  • For a distinctive look, use metal-framework with shatter-proof mirror insets.


(This blog post is culled from an originally published article by the author on Discover.HubPages in 2013) 

*If you like this post, and find it beneficial or interesting, kindly share it on social media. It will be greatly appreciated :)

Looking for Cheap Headboard Ideas? Try Wall Decals, Drapes, and Wallpaper


A creative faux headboard idea using wall decals. You can create any theme you desire to make the wall above your bed look stylish and impressive.
A creative faux headboard idea using wall decals. You can create any theme to make the wall above your bed look stylish and impressive.
So, how do you come up with impressive headboard ideas?
What can you use?
Is it an easy instal-it-yourself decor feature?

For a few dollars and a couple of hours of work over the weekend, you can style your bed and dress it up with a creative headboard feature that can become a focal point in your bedroom. For this affordable feature, use wall decals. Apply them on the wall above the bed where the headboard position is to create an elaborate (or simple) headboard effect.

1. Wall Decal Headboards

Wall decals (stickers) come in various styles, shapes, colours, and patterns. They can be anything from simple and whimsical quotes to very graphic designs with striking visual appeal: funny, inspirational, mood-enhancing, scenic, or dramatic. You can use any theme or create something unique that reflects your style.

Wall-applied stickers work well for almost any type of bedroom; adults, teens, or young children. While you can apply adult themes, mature quotes, or illusionary effects for adults, you can create faux headboards with pretty and colourful picturesque scenes, quaint patterns, or numerical and alphabetical arrangements for nurseries and young children. For teens and tweens, themes with their favorite rock stars, glow-in-the-dark, and vivid and cute patterns like butterflies, hearts, and rainbows. 

You can also create and design your own pattern by combining various decal themes.

How to Apply Wall Stickers

  1. Applying stickers directly onto the wall is simple and fast, but it is best to use removable stickers. This will allow you to change the look of your decal headboard as often as you wish.
  2. Cut out the shape and size of your preferred headboard from an inexpensive board like plywood or chipboard. Before you install it on the wall, apply the decals or stickers. It is easier to apply decal stickers when the board is flat on the floor.
  3. If you wish to apply them directly on a half, or three-quarter-inch board (before installing on walls), coat the board with a block of bright or muted paint. Ensure that its edges are lipped before painting. 
  4. Fix the finished product onto the wall with hidden screws.

2. Drapery-Style Headboards

Curtain ‘headboards’ are one of the cheapest and easiest to make. It is a task that will take you no longer than thirty minutes. You can use inexpensive fabrics or textile cut-offs for this headboard effect and hang them simply, just as you will drapes and curtains. 
Simple to sew and install window-type treatments can also serve as faux headboards.
Simple to sew and install window-type treatments can also serve as faux headboards.

For an aesthetically pleasing overall look, choose a material with bold patterns. Depending on the effect you wish to create, it should complement the bedroom’s colour scheme. You can hang them from the ceiling for a dramatic look. This works well for wide beds.  Styles to go for include Roman blinds, swags, pinch-pleats or swag and tails. 

How to Hang Your Drapery-Effect Headboard
To hang your finished product, attach a decorative curtain rod to any height (of choice) above the bed’s head, and simply hang your curtain; swags, blinds, pleated, ruffled or plain gathered drapes.
 

3. Wallpapered Headboards

If you seek a low-budget but stylish headboard look, applying wallpaper on the wall above the bed is worth considering. With thousands of patterns to choose from, wallpapered headboards bring so much personality into a room, and will enhance the bed in no small way.

Choose a wallpaper pattern that works well with the room’s colour scheme. If you plan to do a bedroom upgrade, you can start off by selecting a covering that has your favourite colour. You can pick out something quirky and colourful or a wallpaper design that is rich and regal. You can then pick out a colour from the wallpaper’s pattern and paint it on the remaining bedroom walls.

Wallpaper Headboards - Tips

  • Create a dramatic look with a floor-to-ceiling wallpaper headboard that spans the width of the bed.
  • Install textured fabric covering like velvet, damask, or animal print in place of wallpaper. This creative headboard idea will give your bed the illusion of grandeur.
  • Wallpaper can be applied directly on the wall. However, if you plan to use fabric, first apply the fabric to a ¾” board. Wrap the fabric around the edge and tack it in place at the back.
  • Before applying the wallpaper, make sure your bed is positioned in a place you're happy with because moving this headboard around once it’s installed can be a little tricky.

Articles of interest
Bed Headboards Made from Tapestry, Large Paintings, and Carpets
How to Make Area Rugs from Old Clothes
7 Ways to Change Your Living Room from Drab to Uplifting


(This blog post is culled from an originally published article by the author on Discover.HubPages in 2013) *If you like this post, and find it beneficial or interesting, kindly share it on social media. It will be greatly appreciated :)

How to Start a Freelance Interior Design Business (Online and Offline)

Are you an interior designer seeking the freedom of working for yourself? If you do, then you should work as a freelance interior designer. If or when you decide to pursue this dream, this post will tell you how to set up a work-for-yourself interior design business.

Interior design business tools - Image used under license from 123rf.com)


As a freelance designer, you need office space to run your business. This space can be anywhere from your kitchen countertop to a nook in your living room to set up a work-from-home space.

There are other necessities as well, such as basic requirements for the smooth running of your interior design and consultation office. To provide your services online or offline, you need:

Computer


If you require maximum power computers for your interior design freelance business, a MacBook, a Windows laptop, or a more affordable Chromebook are great options.

They are compact powerhouses that offer exceptional versatility for interior designers. They will easily handle powerful interior design software programs.

Website


A website showcases your skills and expertise. Setting up your niche-specific website with a hosting service provides the space and resources to store and run your virtual office.

Here is where you'll display your interior design portfolio, connect with clients (worldwide), receive visitors, consult, and share and promote your design concepts with potential customers.

Design Software Program


Most interior designers are software program savvy, and it'll be a good idea if freelancers are, too. I prefer to design manually on drawing paper, but I still had to learn to use 3D software programs. 

CAD-program generated interior design 3D image - (Image used under license from 123rf.com)


Proficiency in interior design software has become increasingly significant as professional interior designers now use software to design, draw floor plans and renderings, and create 3D illustrations, working drawings crucial for visualizing and communicating design ideas.

There is a wide range of options available, including free programs and premium. To varying degrees, they all provide features that help you conceive, draw, visualize, execute, and communicate interior design projects.

Home Office Space or Work from Home Station


As a freelance interior designer, chances are you work from home. Create a comfortable and dedicated workspace - a corner, dead space, or nook to serve as your physical office. It can be set up in an attic, living room, or guest room (if available). The space must be adapted for long-term work.

The furniture and accessories required are minimal - perhaps an ergonomic desk and chair, adjustable table lamp, shelves, and a slide-in/out work surface. A minimum space of 16sq ft (2.5sq m) will suffice. If you have more floor space, that's great. 

Internet Connection


A high-speed internet connection is required for seamless video calls with clients. As a freelancer, virtual communication is vital to your business. When you work with clients who live outside your locality, you can only communicate with them through a reliable internet connection. 

Webcam with Headset


These are necessary for holding virtual meetings with all stakeholders if the need arises. And because this is a business setup, a good quality webcam and headset are essential for effective audio and video interactions. 

Other Requirements


Industry-specific sketchbooks, working drawings and portfolio books, appointment books, and project management workbooks.

Conclusion


As a freelance, your workspace can be anywhere from a public library to a cafe, your home, or outside in the park on sunny days. This means:

  • You have no overheads.
  • There is no need to rent office space.
  • You are free from the clutches of demanding employers.
  • You do not have to pay office electricity bills. 
  • There is no constant commuting, twice each day. 
  • There are no distractions from co-workers. 
  • You are immune to restrictions typical of permanent employment. 
  • You decide which jobs to take (or not).

Starting out as a freelancer can be frightening, but there is nothing to worry about once you have all the essentials you need. It is a fascinating and highly lucrative career path you don't want to miss out on if you plan to work for yourself in this category of the building industry.

(Originally published by AloBedas on Medium on 27th November 2024)


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How to Build a Recording Studio in Your Room, Garage, or Basement

Setting up a home recording studio is easy and affordable (if you have a tight budget) but some things must be done in preparation, so you build a home studio that’s efficient and professional.
 
This is a simple guide on how to set up a home recording studio. If you plan to set up a home-based studio, this article will tell you what to consider. The room must not only make recording easy for you, it must also be built to impress your clients.


This is an example of a recording studio that you can set up in your home - your room, garage, or basement.


How Do I Set Up a Recording Studio?



Good question. A well-set-up recording studio can save a lot of precious time in a shooting schedule, so to set up an efficient recording space, either for a client or for your personal pleasure, there are four basic things to consider. They are:
  • Size of the room you intend to use.
  • Required features.
  • Electricity supply.
  • Sound production.

Size of Room You Plan to Use


The size of the studio space is the first thing to consider when building a recording studio in your home. One that is too small is as good as not having a studio.

The recommended minimum space you require is 20ft by 15ft (610cm X 457cm) of floor space, and a ceiling with a minimum height of 10ft (305cm). The shape of the room is also important. It is much better to have a rectangular shape room than a square room.

A room set up with these minimum sizes will reduce light spills from the walls and ceilings, and ensure that your talent has the 'freedom to move'.

Required Features


The next thing to consider is the interior features of the room.
  • Does the room have a suspended ceiling or mounting points for lighting trusses? 
  • Is the existing colour of the ceiling and walls conducive enough for a recording studio set-up? 
  • Are there adequate lighting points? etc...
If the only room you can use to build your studio has a suspended ceiling, for instance, you have two options.
  • Dismantle the suspended ceiling panels. This will allow for the extra height that you need to install your lighting gear and trusses.
  • Make use of butterfly clips in the ceiling to hang lightweight fixtures from its beams and tees -  (The disadvantage of this option is that the butterfly clips tend to bend the beams, which may put the fixture close to the ceiling tiles. This will cause unpleasant discolourations of the ceiling over time).

Though the height of suspended ceilings may pose a problem, they do have their advantages.
  1. A suspended ceiling makes it easy to hide or install electrical cabling
  2. It is perfect for hanging lightweight cloth or backdrops.
  3. It can be used for installing recording studio-style LED lighting panels.
  4. To install a lighting grid, once you locate the position of the ceiling studs, you will find them useful to hang light trusses for your studio's lighting fixtures.
Another important feature is the room's colour, especially if it's a smaller space than usual. Paint the walls or ceiling in any dark colour like deep purple, brown shades, dark blue, or even black if that's what you prefer. Alternatively, you can hang up a dark material along the walls - floor to ceiling, as this ensures you control your studio lighting more effectively.

Electrical Requirements


The electrical wiring layout in the room must be perfect; otherwise, it can make or break your studio. A recording studio set-up without adequate power to tap from will limit the kind of lights you can use.

So how do you ensure you get what's adequate?
  1. First check the electrical panel to see how many circuits your room has, as well as the amps available on each circuit.
  2. If you'll be using incandescent lights or quartz halogen light bulbs, you will more than likely require a minimum of 30 to 40 amps of power. You don’t want to overload your electrical system.
  3. Find out which outlets and switches are connected, and to which circuit. This way you can label each outlet to ascertain the amount of power you can draw from each outlet before it overloads.
  4. If you plan to use hanging lights from the ceiling, you may need to consider hiring a professional electrician to help you install power outlets on the ceiling, or at the top edge of the walls. This way, you won’t have unsightly cables running/hanging down to the floor.
  5. Ensure you have a 10 amp circuit for every couple of lights you'll be plugging into so that you don’t have to walk back to the circuit breaker every ten minutes during a shoot.

Sound Production


One of the most important things to consider before setting up a recording studio at home is the sound that filters into the room, both external noise and internal clatter.

If you can, don't have your studio room directly across from a train station, bus station, railway line, expressway, or airport. However, if you don't have a choice and the only room you can use is close to such noise, you will need to build a soundproof inner wall in your studio. That's the only way to keep unwanted external noise out.

The biggest and most common culprit for noise in any studio almost always comes from the interior. Noise emanates from the heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and/or the HVAC. These units tend to add a low hum to your audio, and it's always a real challenge to remove while editing.

What you can do in such instances is to:
  • Turn off your HVAC units during any shoot
  • Alternatively, you can hire a professional to soundproof the HVAC.
Hiring a professional may set you off a bit of money, but you will be assured of a clean, clear, and professional audio sound output.

Basic Essentials Required 


Getting started isn't as hard as many may think neither is it necessarily an exorbitantly expensive venture.

It is preferable if this is your first attempt to build a simple studio. You don't want to get overwhelmed or discouraged halfway through.

It is best to have a minimum budget of nothing less than $500 and even with that, there are only low limits to what you can accomplish with that figure. It can be a start, but if you are truly serious about recording your music, you will need more than that amount.

What you need to start off are just a few basic essentials that can also serve as a good foundation to build upon later. They are as follows:
  • Computer (you probably have one you can use)
  • Closed back headphones
  • Two microphones
  • Mic stand (an affordable one for now)
  • Digital Audio Workstation (DAW software records, edits, and mixes music on your computer)
  • Audio Interface (hardware to connect all your gear to your computer)
  • Studio monitors
  • Pop filter (to filter out 'popping')
  • XLR Cables (Long one for the microphone and two short ones for monitors)

Finally, as a home studio enthusiast aiming to attain release-quality recordings, you can learn about the whole mixing process adopted by some of the most successful producers in an easy step-by-step guide: Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio. With user-friendly descriptions, it includes useful tips and tricks from top-rated engineers working on current multi-platinum hits.


Having a Recording Studio at Home is a Good Investment


Creating a studio in your home is one of the best investments you can ever make and this simple guide on setting up a studio can help you set one up in little or no time.

Building a simple recording studio for yourself or a business venture will ensure that all your recorded scenes are well produced, without you having to spend so much money and precious hours of your time doing them elsewhere.


(Originally published by the author on Discover.HubPages in 2011)
 

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