(NAPSA)—With television home makeover showsso popular, Americans are more interested than ever in creating the welldesigned homeof their dreams. Even with this abundance of information, not everyone has the confidence to create a beautiful interior. To help, designer Robert Verdi of Discovery Channel’s “Surprise By Design” provides these simple tips that will encourage you to express yourself and bring your design vision to life. Simplicity Rules From traditional style to modern decor, simplicity is key to good design. Removing clutter and focusing on pieces that you truly love will highlight the unique aspects of your environment. In addition, sim- plifying your homecreates a peaceful retreat—the perfect antidote to today’s hecticlifestyles. Get Inspired It’s confusing to know where to begin. Inspiration for your home can be found anywhere from a museum exhibition to a magazine photograph. Keep in mind that a quick change can breed dramatic results. For instance, drape a sofa with an antique shawlfrom a flea market or hang a series of black and white photographs on a boldly painted wall. Create an eclectic, yet sophisticated look by combining your favorite elements from completely different periods and your own varied tastes. Think: Modern Zen or Industrial French Country. Form and Function By definition, good design is a combination of form and function. Essentially, most pieces in your Carpettiles are a smart and cre- ative DIY solution. home should be both practical and attractive. For instance, a sofa or a table that will be used daily should be elegant but durable enough to withstand yearsof use. It’s a good idea to do a little research before selecting investmentpieces. If a piece of furniture catches your eye, find out how it was made and what materials were used. Knowingthese types of details will help you be more confident in your purchase. Utilizing a catalog or Web site such as Design Within Reach that stocks products from the world’s leading designers also is a smart way to ensure your investment is beauti- ful and high quality. DIY—Design It Yourself, Do It Yourself Everyone from bachelors to teens to college students are learning about design and improving their living spaces. “T’m amazed by the design knowledge of today’s consumers and their constant desire for more information,” said Verdi. “It seems the savvier consumers become about design, the more likely they are to take risks, explore new products and customize their homes.” Verdi recommends seeking out innovative, do-it-yourself products such as InterfaceFLOR, which are high-style, interchangeable carpet tiles. InterfaceFLOR combines design sensibility, variety, simplicity in installation and affordability in a format that allows you to customize wall-to-wall or area rugs quickly and easily. Multiple pattern, color and texture combinations produce results that are warm and inviting or urban and edgy. Using Color Although neutral palettes are usually favorites, Verdi recommends incorporating splashes of bright color to liven up dull rooms. Unexpected color combinations such as pink and brown or citron and sherbet can provide a quick and satisfying update. Use throw pillows, fresh flowers and original artwork to provide interesting focal points in every room. “Designing your home should be a fun way to express yourself, not an overwhelming and expensive undertaking,” said Verdi. “I have the privilege and pleasure of designing rooms that make people happy every day—however, by keeping these tips in mind, anyone can design their own favorite rooms.” For more information on new products and current design trends, visit www.dwr.com or www.interfaceflor.com.
