homes | the interior

Easy solutions for trouble areas

By SUZANNE SPROUL

THE PROBLEM ROOM. Every house has one, whether homeowners are willing to talk about them or not. They are spaces in the house, usually ones where most of the living is done, that tend to fall victim to messiness.

A problem room can be a lot like a problem child — all it really needs is attention. Is there any single room in the house at the top of the problem list?

"Not really," said Stephanie Gibson, who owns J & N Interiors in Claremont with Jahanna Nichols. "Every situation is different, but there are common problems and solutions that can happen throughout the house." Storage?

There never seems to be enough of it. Lighting? Most homes don't have an adequate amount or have the correct fixtures. And are living spaces, by nature, prone to problems? Do we enable them and then simply get used to seeing them a certain way?

Impulse buying is one thing that leads to problem rooms. Too many times, homeowners allow emotions to take over — the pillows that looked absolutely darling in the store, don't fit once they come home.

Painting can be a great decorating tool, but before spending money experimenting with colors, ask a professional who is trained to consider such elements as lighting and who has plenty of paint swatches that can be reviewed ahead of time.

Finally, remember that improvements take time. Don't underestimate that and the budget when buying, Nichols said. Although decorating magic happens quickly on television shows, quality and thoughtful purchasing takes longer in the real world.

Gibson and Nichols have some solutions for five common problems.

They are:
Problem: Impulse buying
Solution: Either move the purchased item to an area the homeowner likes best or keep it and accessorize around it.

Problem: Buying things without keeping the room in mind
Solution: Consider how each purchase will work proportionately and aesthetically within the existing space. Evaluate the space and determine how that space is used.

Problem: Keeping the entire room in mind, not just part of it
Solution: Think about the proper use of accessories and those final touches that seem to tie everything together. If you have a designer help or are doing this on your own, bring the environment together with the people who live there.

Problem: Clutter
Solution: Putting things in their place is great, but keep those "places" to a minimum. Instead of choosing lots of small storage options, opt for a few larger pieces that can make a big impact.

Replacing a small storage unit with a bolder piece (in the "after" shot below), added space and a focal point to this Upland family room. Changing the accessories and corralling personal items makes clutter disappear while adding a crisp new look.

Problem: Needing change, but not wanting to spend a lot of money
Solution: Use what you have. You will be pleasantly surprised to see what a big difference simply rearranging furniture or accessories can make.

Move pieces in from another room, shift them around. And remember that paying for even a one-hour consultation with an interior designer is money well-spent.

"Many people are capable of dealing with problem rooms on their own, but it can be difficult," Nichols said. "A designer can use a fresh eye and has experience to help. Talk with us about what your clear need for space is and what your expectations are and then we can create a design that combines a cohesive environment while maintaining a client's uniqueness."