For those who went through Interior Redesign Training, the intimidating task of being the trainee is executing your 1st One Day Room Makeover. Part of your training course is being initiated by accomplishing an Interior Redesign - Overseen deftly by your instructor.
Having taken my training in Dallas, we arrived at our Hands-on makeover at a lovely golf course home in East Plano. Upon arrival, the Home's portico entry housed a shiny black Lexus SUV, the interior oozed quality and high-style. From the Stickley writing desk, the English buffet in the Dining Room, to the petite still-life oils in gilded frames - My training partner and I were instantly hesitant by the stature of the home.
Part of the process of a One Day Makeover is asking the homeowner if there are any precarious pieces to note. She stated she picked up the English buffet at auction for $16,000.00 and the Stickley had been handed down through her husband's side. So noted, and now fully frightened, we started the process of dismantling the room.
During your training you're taught how to aptly rearrange precious things, so during the dismantling process, my training mate and I eyed a cocktail table to move. We had to move the table before the desk. The intricate hand carved legs, the mass, the mahogany finish all screamed - bend low or you'll slip a disc. We steadied ourselves, counted to three and prepared to life the weighty subject. To our amazement, the table practically flew from our arms! Instead of being hundreds of pounds, it was a near maybe 40. Huh? What? To our wonder in this fancy abode, next to the desk, when we looked under the table, it was stamped - "BOMBAY COMPANY."
Being sassy students, we knew that Bombay Company was a home décor store that sold affordable knock-offs of decorating classics.
My, my... that knock-off cocktail was assumed priceless because it sat in the same space with the priceless Stickley! What a fabulous lesson to learn. Develop your skills on knowing high quality and then you can help your clients with the art of the Mix! A mix of Rich and Poor.
So, 13 years later and my design philosophy stays true from that little lesson I learned over a decade ago; It's all about the perfect mix - Understanding how to mix "Rich with Poor." This styling technique allows the savvy homeowner to get the look, but not always at the high price. The trick is knowing when to spend it and when not to.
So the other day I read online that the Bombay Company has been reformed! I was so excited, because that company was such a great source!
I can now arm my clients with pieces from the resurrected Bombay Co. & I am thrilled. Go check out their collection at WWW.QVC.com. My 1st choice pick is the Riley console table. With its streamline style and neo-classical cut-outs, it fits seamlessly into any space.
Final Note: Those petite still-life oils in gilded frames... Still had their price tags from "Tuesday Morning..." on their backs!
Since 1999, interior stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based interiors and home staging business - Reinventing Space. Your can see her work on HGTV or in the news giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether staging their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change.
Julea also offers her expertise with mentoring and educational offerings to Realtors, Home Stagers and Interior Redesigners in the industry. Visit her site, JULEA.com or Interior Stylist Program for more information or email her at Julea@Julea.com.
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