Home Improvement Magazine – Expert Q&A
Home Improvement Magazine – December 2009
Expert Q&A
Q. With the New Year right around the corner, can you suggest some new design ideas to freshen up my home’s interior?
A. The best way get a new look for the New Year is paint! But, this year try a different painting method to get a big impact without digging deep into your pockets. Instead of a single flat coat of paint, I suggest a technique called ‘sheen striping’ to create a subtle and textural feel. Simply paint your base color using flat sheen paint and then paint stripes using a semi-gloss paint in the same color. All it takes is a level, a ruler, a pencil, and some painter’s tape.
When using stripes, here’s some design psychology to keep in mind: Vertical stripes are great for making ceilings seem taller, while horizontal stripes can make the actual room seem larger. Horizontal lines offer a more serene environment and vertical lines give a feeling of upward mobility. Smaller stripes that alternate in widths create a formal look, while wider stripes provide a more casual feel for your space.
With just a little DIY and some creativity you can create an expensive wallpapered look that suits your style while staying on a budget.
-Beth Dotolo, RID, ASID, LEED AP, vice president of interior design, Nest Interior Design
Photography by Kevin Dotolo
