Sasee Magazine

When posed the task of writing about upcoming design trends or frugal tips for decorating your home, interior designer Dana Malinski owner of Currents Home Furnishings, fills with excitement. “This is a time the two are truly one in the same”, she says.

Currently organic, earthy elements are making a large impact. There is nothing less expensive or more striking in a space than beautiful found branches, gathered shells or stones placed in a special vase or vessel. She laughs, “wine corks with the date and the people you shared it with are one of my favorite displays I like to watch grow”.

Everyone is aware the economy has changed the way we think about almost everything these days. “We’re more careful, more selective in our decision making which is really a good thing. Just because you have the means to spend willy nilly, doesn’t mean you should! Interior design is based on strategic thinking, about your lifestyle, design sensibilities, function and budget. You can most definitely create a fantastic space on any budget. Also, good design should be timeless. Numerous changes throughout the years should not be necessary.

My most enjoyable, successful and gratifying jobs have been done using what the client already owns and then adding the important, usually less expensive “pops” at the end. It’s extremely important to know where you’ll get the most bang for your buck. Here are a few suggestions on how to do just that:

• Understand – Understand that if you want to do this yourself, do. It can be done. On the other hand, if you decide to hire a professional, let them do what they are trained to do. The most important part of a designer’s job is listening to your needs, wants and desires for the finished product and developing a plan to incorporate those in a creative, clean way that may not have occurred to you. Understand that designing a room is a process. Transition can be difficult, but by this time you should have developed a trust in the person you’ve hired and be willing to wait for the complete reveal. If you follow these guidelines you will most likely be thrilled with your new space.
• Know – Know that hiring a decorator for a couple of hours can save you money!
• Paint – It may involve a little elbow grease, but it is inexpensive and provides an instant clean slate.
• Curtains – Nothing fancy, just something to soften the hard edges. Place them atleast 12” above the window if possible. Try not to block incoming light.
• Lighting – Okay, this one can be a little pricey, but it’s worth it! If cost is an issue, be sure to use accent lighting on bookshelves or over art. Don’t use overhead lighting unless you have to and it has a dimmer switch.
• Furniture – Think outside the box! Reupholster, rearrange, add great pillows.
• Accessorize – Less is really more! Get rid of the dust collectors, use only the things that are special, things that you love [ie. Coffee table books (not paperback), items from nature,(not bird poop), things gathered from your travels].

It really does not have to cost a lot to create a room you and your family will love for years to come.

If you need help, feel free to call. We offer a wide variety of design services to fit any budget.
843.235.0456