Simple solution equals great designs!

Simple solution equals great designs! You don't need to spend a lot of money, you just have to get creative! Many times clients are on budgets (who isn't these days!) but that doesn't mean they have to sacrifice design. There are many ways to spruce up your home whether you're selling or redesigning. Here are some tips that you can past along to your clients.

• Fancy feet- you can update a look on an armchair by simply changing up the feet. Most just screw on so you can easily replace them with your choice of decorative feet. Just make sure that your new feet don't go higher then 1" of the original feet.
• Decorative lamp shade- there are many ways to "dress up" your lamp shade. You can add paper lining on the inside of a contemporary shade. Cut decorative paper to fit inside the shade and attach it with double sided tape. It look great when it's off, even better when the lights are turned on. Add embellishment from the scrap booking aisle. Use ribbons and beaded trim around the base of the shade. Use hot glue gun to attach the ribbons. How about wall paper on the outside of the shade? Use spray adhesive to attach to shade. Word of advice using wall paper will diffuse the light, so plan accordingly.
• Stair riser- step up the visual interest on your risers by using wall paper. Simply choose your favorite wall paper. Just make sure you pick a print or pattern that will work when you cut it down to the size.
• Kitchen or Bathroom tiles- if you have tiles that are plain and want to spruce them up without breaking the budget, use stick-on-tiles accents. Easier to do then removing the tiles itself (that require a Dremel, removing the old tile and grouting in the new one in). You simply peel off the backing and position it on the tile. Then let dry for 24 hrs. These stickers can with-stand moisture, heat and plenty of splashes. (berlinwallpaper.com) Plus they can cover up hairline cracks!
• Window film- you can mask a glass door to cover up any messy that you don't want to be seen, by using a semi-opague window film. It's easy to use and will get you the desired effect you want. It can also you give you some privacy as well. If you have a glass door ifor you closet this is a great solution, without having to replace the door.
• Dog crate- my personal favorite! Do you have a dog crate that is an eye sore? This project will not only address this but will give you a decorative table as well. This dog crate features decorative cabinets grills and solid oak frame. i saw this project in "This Old House" magazine in the June issue. And although it doesn't give you the instruction on how to build it, they do mention that it will be coming soon. So keep an eye on it.