Have a Happy & Healthy New Year! - the Parklander

HOME DECOR
Starting New or Starting Over:
A GUY’S GUIDE TO
HOME FURNISHINGS
Whether starting new or starting over, it can be difficult for today’s bachelor
to know where to turn when it comes to home furnishings. But tackling
home design for the first time can be easier than a guy might think – if he
starts at the right point, with these tips from www.furniture.com.
“How you furnish your home says a lot about how you feel about yourself,
and how you’d like others to see you. For many men, that can be intimidating,”
says Davis Remignanti, lead design consultant at www.furniture.com.
But tackling home design for the first time can be easier than a guy might
think – if he starts at the right point.
“Just head straight to your closet,” he advises.
“Take a look at the styles, fabrics and colors in your wardrobe to get a feel
for the types of designs and patterns you’re comfortable wearing,” he
explains. “Are you conservative and understated or bright and bold?
Weekend casual or well-suited? Dark or light colors? Patterns or solids?
Once you have a handle on your comfort-zone in clothing, translate
those preferences into your home decor. Now you have a great starting
point when shopping for furniture, paint, lighting and window treatments,”
he says.
Remignanti offers these tips on how:
• Start with the Basics: Step one for anyone furnishing a home is to
craft a realistic budget. If you’re on your own and counting pennies, list
needs (must haves), then wants (nice to have) and fulfill in that order.
• Family Treasures: Even though it was free, Grandma’s old floral sofa
probably doesn’t belong in your living room. Keep only the hand-me
downs that fit your personal style. Donate the rest to Goodwill.
• Media Central: When displaying electronics front and center, as guys
tend to do, plan ahead. Look for pieces with expandable components or
adjustable shelves, allowing for future electronics purchases.
• Leather or Not: Feeling intimidated about choosing an upholstery
fabric? Consider leather instead. It’s durable, easy to maintain and
keep clean, and today you can find it in a wider range of colors and
styles than ever before.
• Catch Some Zzzz’s: It’s easily the most personal room, but many
guys decorate their bedroom as an afterthought. Start by investing in a
quality mattress and a stylish bed. You can add other pieces over time.
• Lighten Up: Coordinate your lighting by selecting lamps of complementary
style, material and color. And invest in dimmer switches. You’ll
save on electricity and you’ll be able to create a romantic atmosphere.
• Get Passionate: It’s okay to be a fan, but keep your collectibles
under control. Avoid the urge to turn the whole room into a shrine of
your special interest.
• Life of the Party: If you entertain, select furnishings that can be rearranged
to increase floor space or provide extra seating. Cocktail
ottomans do double duty as a serving surface or a spare chair when
guests are over.
“Above all, avoid any pressure to ‘fill up’ a room.There is no rush in creating
a home. Select furnishings that you find comfortable, practical and
stylish,” Remignanti advises, “and enjoy living with your decisions.”
JANUARY 2007