Editor’s note: Augusta interior designer Michael Siewert joins The Augusta Press staff as a lifestyles columnist. He will be writing about design and living spaces.
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Augusta Press.)
To say that I am excited to offer my design advice with the readers of The Augusta Press is an understatement! I am honored and humbled to have been selected. I hope that I can offer you advice that is relevant to your home and lifestyle.
I tend to speak in layman’s terms and try not to get too “fussy.” Design should be fun, laid back and a reflection of each and every individual. Never will two people agree on the topic and just because someone doesn’t agree with your design aesthetic, it does NOT make it wrong!
I can certainly explain why something works or doesn’t work, but I do not live by rules where design is concerned.
I have been in the business for over 35 years and have worked with every budget, both inside and outside as well as residential and commercial. I love to empower someone and give them confidence to make design decisions on their own.
However, sometimes a professional must get involved to offer an array of options that homeowners are not aware of. We also like to think outside the box and offer our clients that little something extra.
Sometimes our drafting skills are called upon to assist in demonstrating furniture or cabinet placement as well as traffic flow. But it should always be a partnership, as with any relationship, and a common goal must be set.
When designing a space, no matter how small or large a project you intend to tackle, always consider the function of the space. This is very important. This idea will assist in every decision you have to make with your project.
Furniture placement is very important to create traffic flows as well as a certain comfort level. Is the function of the room meant to be of a relaxed nature? Select comfortable furniture that you and/or your guests can relax with.
Is the function of the room meant to be cooking? There are certain parameters for ease of use where appliances are concerned.
Is the function meant to be a child’s play room or area? Select furniture that can store a variety of toys. Select a color palette that will help in your function.
Are you decorating a bedroom? Blue can relax your mind.
Are you decorating a fast food space? Yellow will energize people and get them in and get them out!
Patterns are very important. They can be the inspiration in a room. Colors can set the theme and tone of the space, again, to assist with creating the mood.
Patterns can include fabric pillows, a rug or possibly wall art. If the function is of a high traffic nature, consider taking advantage of performance fabrics, or rugs made of man-made fibers. These will be easy to clean and maintain.
Will you be renting for the Masters Golf Tournament? You will have to consider keeping decor simple and clean, or at least consider how you can easily achieve the more simplistic, generic look, should you consider adding more personal decor.
Many people are using their breakfast rooms much more and dining rooms much less. Maybe an oval or round table would work in this space better than a rectangular table so that your family or guests can more easily get to the backside of the table.
Function is very important when considering lighting a room. Whether you need a chandelier to spread light up, or down, or lamp light by a bed to be able to read at night, lighting and the bulbs you use are very important where function is concerned.
Furniture with doors and drawers versus an open frame type cabinet can offer better storage should your room require this.
Do you work the night shift and need to sleep during the day? Then the function of your room requires you to be able to block out the light with your window treatments.
In this space, I will be discussing your many options where all of these details are concerned. I hope to give you the confidence to make wise purchases as you consider the function of a space no matter what detail you are considering.
If you begin with questioning the function of the space, you are well on your way!
Let the creativity begin!
