That's where "Finishing Touches" make all the difference. They give the room a pleasing sense of depth and dimension that appeals to the eye as it roams about the space momentarily settling on the various colors, shapes, textures and patterns. They don't distract from the overall appeal of the room by dominating the space… they enhance it's character. Picture if you will a cupcake without the frosting, or a '57 Chevy without the whitewall tires, or perhaps the Mona Lisa without her infamous smile! Yeah, you might be thinking that they're ok like that, but it's those very same kinds of details that set them apart from the rest and take them one step further… moving them from just being "ok" to that "YES!" feeling.

At Inviting Interiors we understand that your home is precious to you and that you shouldn't have to settle for just "ok". We can help you select wall coverings, paint colors and techniques, window treatments, and the appropriate fabrics and accessories to make your vision of that perfect room a reality. If you'd like, we can even do the shopping for you!

On The Walls, Floor, and Ceiling
Even the most minimal design approach calls for a few accessories to finish the space. Placing a carefully chosen picture in just the right frame above your sofa or mantel can complete an otherwise barren looking wall. You don't have to limit yourself to framed art work - mirrors, wall sconces and decorative shelving are also great items for adding depth to wall surfaces. But keep in mind that just because you have "empty" space doesn't mean that you have to fill it.

In corners or areas of the room where natural light is not available, silk plants and flowers can be used to add color and texture to what may otherwise be an empty space. Through the creative use of up-lighting these areas can really come alive, adding not only visual appeal to the plant itself but drama and dimension to otherwise unadorned areas by casting subtle shadows on the walls and ceiling.

Ceiling medallions, though sometimes thought of as old fashioned, can really complete the look of a chandelier in a formal dinning room, or add a fun colorful touch to a bedroom, kitchen, or family room ceiling. Whether used to add formality, romance or whimsy, they can offer a more finished look to compliment the overhead lighting.

Candles, books, clocks and other small items can really add personality and flair to a room. They can be used to add height in areas that feel flat, or they can be used to bring down the scope of larger pieces that are overwhelming a space. They are the intriguing items that are placed carefully around a room giving it character and charm.

Fabrics & Window Treatments
Fabrics are a great way to bring texture and color into a room. They allow you to use bold or striking accents that may be too much on larger pieces, but are just right in small doses when used on pillows, throws or lamp shades. Every room should have a splash of "Wow" - a red silk pillow or beaded throw can infuse a little daring into a comfortable family room that needs to appeal to a variety of tastes. With a small amount of work, a so-so lamp shade can turn into a one-of-a-kind piece of art but at the same time serve a very practical purpose. This is also a good opportunity to use fabrics that appeal to your sense of style but may be too expensive to use on your furniture or walls.

Adding slipcovers to your existing furniture is a terrific way to really impact the look of the room without breaking your budget. Slipcovers can add texture as well as color to the room, and it's not as difficult as it might seem. Pre-made slipcovers can be purchased for some types of furniture, while other styles, usually taller or bulkier pieces, require custom made covers. Choosing to use custom made slipcovers offers you the opportunity to really define what you want the furniture to look and feel like.

Another plus to fabric accents is that they are easily changeable to fit the season or to suite your mood.

Window treatments can make or break the feel of a room. Even with the most expensive lush wall color, if the window dressing falls short, the whole room is let down. This doesn't mean they have to cost a lot of money. If you like what you already have you can freshen up what may have been an ordinary pair of curtains with the right hardware and accents. Decorative rods and finials, fabric tie-backs or metal hold-backs can effect a dramatic change in the look of the windowed walls.

A Final Thought
Finishing Touches can help breath new life into what may feel like a stale or unfinished space. They can range from simple off-the-shelf purchases to expensive antiques to garage sale items. The important part is that they suit your style and that they are right for your room.