Design Style

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Design Style

From Milieu Design

Vol. I, Issue I, 2008

January 28, 2008

Hello, Friends! Thank you for your interest in Milieu Design. This bulletin will cover all manner of Interior and Landscape design issues,

beginning with why people hire designers in the first place. We hope you enjoy reading and join us for future issues of Tricks of the Trade,

published bi-monthly. If there’s something you’d like to see addressed in future issues, drop us a line at info@milieu-design.net .

~ Juliet

Why do people hire designers anyway?

With all of the television design shows, channels like HGTV, DIY Network and TLC, and home improvement warehouses;

it’s easy to understand why someone would want to “do it themselves” rather than hire a designer.

So why would anyone pay a designer’s fees for something they can do themselves?

The answer can be summed up in four words:

· Expertise

· Exclusivity

· Creativity

· Time

Expertise

Professional Designers require training, including four years of college, internships and apprenticeships.

They have to pass tests to be recognized and licensed as designers and to join trade organizations.

Their course of study includes extensive training in textiles, furniture manufacturing, construction, architecture,

drafting, regulatory codes, space planning, color theory, design theory and much, much more. Designers are also expected

to keep up with current trends and innovations and are required to continue their education in order to maintain licensing.

Yes, you can knock down the wall between your kitchen and dining room- but are you absolutely sure that it’s not load bearing or a

plumbing chase? Designers are trained to know this information, know how to find out, and know how to handle things in the rare instance

that the information that they have is wrong.

Exclusivity

You’ve heard the term “to the trade” or “trade only.” Most of the products and materials that designers incorporate into a design

are available only to trade professionals- the average homeowner can’t get them. Sites that sell “designer decorative fabrics” don’t tell

you that their merchandise is usually discontinued, flawed, or several seasons old. People who hire designers want that one-of-a-kind,

custom look- it’s the difference between buying tailor-made clothing as opposed to buying off the rack. Of course, there are always

knock-offs and the like but remember: you get what you pay for. Those items will always be inferior in quality, craftsmanship and detail;

but they make great stylish alternatives for people with smaller budgets. Why buy store brands if you can afford Jimmy Choos?

Creativity

Designers are expected and trained to “think outside the box,” offering fresh, unique and innovative design elements and solutions to create

a look that is both timeless and current while meeting the needs and expectations of the client. That’s their job.

Time

Most busy professionals don’t have the time to lay out floor plans, select perfect furniture, put together a color story, hire workmen

and craftsmen, and get the job done so they turn to designers- who have the expertise, contacts and vision to create that perfect space.

Of course, budget is a major consideration when looking at decorating options. Even if a design professional isn’t in your budget, you

can still have a stylish look is still within your means.

in your next Design Style…

Tip: Windows don’t have to be covered.

If you have a large window with a gorgeous view, consider leaving it uncovered and letting the window treatment act as a “frame.”

Examples include French doors, sliders, and bay windows. If privacy is an issue, you can get the same effect by using retractable blinds

or shades that complement the treatment- just close them when you require privacy. I highly recommend custom blinds or shades,

professionally installed, if that’s within your budget.

Design Style

From Milieu Design

Vol. I, Issue 2, 2008

February 14, 2008

Windows to the World

I love windows, big or small, round or square, clear or stained glass; windows provide

incomparable natural lighting, air, and so many opportunities for dressing up-

or down- or anywhere in between. There are even doors that double

as windows- framed glass sliders, French doors and Atrium doors. Clever window

treatments can disguise design flaws such as an off-center door, lower energy

bills, provide privacy and diffuse light.

Here are some tips and tricks for ensuring that your windows are a

stylish part of your décor:

1. Blinds:

Metal blinds add nothing to your décor beyond the ambience of an office

or apartment. At your first opportunity, take them down! Instead, have custom

installed blinds or shades installed. These are available in myriad styles, colors

and materials to complement your home.

Milieu Design works exclusively with Hunter Douglas window coverings, offering

their full line of blinds and shades at a low cost. These are always custom

measured and installed.

2. Dress It Up:

Simple sheers provide a degree of privacy while diffusing natural light.

These can be anything from plain white cotton moiré to heavily

embroidered or printed silk chiffon. Regardless of the material

you choose, sheers add a light and airy ambience to a room.

Panels are used for bold color impact, blocking light,

thermal properties and privacy. Alone or over sheers, they can

provide an elegant backdrop to your room’s décor and lower

energy bills.

Milieu Design has extensive fabric selections and design options

to suit your requirements, décor and space.

3. Top It Off

A draped scarf, cornice or valance gives your window treatment

a finished look. Adding depth and dimension to your windows, these

elements can also provide architectural detail.

Milieu Design works with you to determine the best

treatments for your overall design and for the features

of your windows.

4. Accessorize

Part of the “designer look” is in the details- the right mix of textiles

and trims for window treatments that not only stand up

to close scrutiny; but add to the overall design plan as well.

Tassels, fringe and bullion are the elements that really complete a look

and tie everything together. Think of it as the jewelry you wear with that

special outfit, that really makes it stand out.

What you do with your windows can impact- or detract from- the look

and feel of your home. Milieu Design creates custom window treatments

designed to suit your needs and the ambience of your room. Contact us for more

information and to schedule an appointment:

Milieu Design Custom Window Treatments

in our next Design Style:

Curb Appeal.

One Company ~ One Vision ~ Make it Home.