Making design changes in the home, much like making interior changes of the heart, requires some thought and oftentimes input of direction from others. It is important to talk it over with family before you dive into making changes in the home. First you ’should get it together’ with family and work-out the purpose, plan, and execution of the design/decorating make-over.

Actually the way you live at home determines how you should plan your design. I always suggest coming up with a design concept that unifies the family and connects family with friends. If you work from home as most of us do, incorporate an area away from the family activities so you can have quiet. Evaluate the use of other spaces and get some mileage out of every square foot of the home. Some areas can serve dual functions. For example, the dining room can also be a library or reading room.

I often advise my clients to have a design meeting with their families. In this meeting discuss what is important to each individual and respect everyone’s input and concerns. Iron out what’s needed and come to a peaceful agreement. Not everyone will like your colors or choices. We do want our homes to function in the way we live, but we should also consider everyone’s emotional and spiritual well-being and make home living peaceful with everyone. Creating family unity and a peaceful place of refuge is designing in itself.

Get together with family and talk about things like:

1. Why the design changes are necessary
2. What you want to accomplish
3. What needs to be given or thrown away
4. How you want your home to feel
5. Likes, and of course, dislikes
6. How can you improve on what you have
7. Do you need a designer’s assistance

Every member of the household’s input is valuable. Make sure all are in agreement. Be willing to compromise and be flexible when it comes to keeping peace. Family is God’s gift to you. Never take them for granted.

Thank you for reading what I share. Let’s talk.

Sharing my passion,
Deana