Question Archives

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• December, 2007
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Questions for December, 2007

Making small spaces look bigger.

Jodi asks...
What are some ways to make a small bathroom appear to be more spacious?

Dear Jodi,
Some basic principles apply to making any small space appear larger.

1. A tone on tone or one colour palette unifies and therefore enlarges.
2. Lighter colours expand a space rather than darker ones which bring it in.
3. Simple and clean rather than cluttered and fussy allows the eye to see more space.

Applying these to a bathroom is quite simple. An all white room - fixtures, floor, walls, towels and only the necessary accessories meets all three.

White with soft beige, taupe or grey would also fill the bill. As long as the colours are pale. A trick is to squint when looking at your selections. If they blend together and nothing pops out you've been successful.

The other advantage you have with a bathroom is the ability to use mirror, clear glass and smooth surfaces.

A large mirror or even wall to wall mirror over the sink, will double the visual size of the space.

Clear glass rather than frosted or opaque allows the eye to see through and therefore expands the area. For example, use glass for the shower rather than a curtain.

Smooth surfaces reflect light and brighter always looks bigger. So, if you use stone, polish it rather than hone. Tile should be glossy or smooth galss rather than matt. Paint could go high gloss if you have good smooth walls.

Above all remember #3 - simple and clean.
Hal

Modern window coverings

Stefanie asks...
What window coverings would you suggest using for a small window in a modern kitchen?

Dear Stefanie,
Your answer depends on your view and your own personal style.

If you don't have an attractive view or you don't want anyone to look in, I would suggest "frosting" the window. This can be done with a roll of inexpensive vinyl product from any Big Box store. If you want easy removal, DON'T use the one with the sticky self adhesive side. There's one that adheres when you mist the window with water and just smooth the film on. This is much easier to apply and great if you decide to change the look down the road.

Your second option would be a roller blind. If you require privacy at times, pick one of opaque material.

If you want to still be able to look out, use a perforated "sunscreen" which cuts the amount of light that comes in. Remember, just as you can see out in the daylight, people can see in when your lights are on at night. So, this is not a good privacy option. I usually recommend matching the colour of the blind to the window trim or wall colour for a simple clean look. Always ask for a valance to cover the roller. This allows the blind to "disappear" when rolled up and finishes the look.

Finally there's the Roman blind. Although it has a traditional history, it's smooth, flat drop when down and simple folds when up can have a very modern look. Ready mades often come in simple natural muslin or white cotton. If you're going to have it made to measure you can match the fabric to anything in the room. Just stay away from anything that has a small or fussy pattern because it'll push it back into traditional. Simple or bold is modern. Shiny vinyl would be both - and it'd be easy to clean in a kitchen too!

I hope one of these choices works for you.
Hal

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If you are stuck on anything to do with interior design or decorating, send your question to Hal! We will do our best to answer all of the questions we receive, and may feature yours on our web site. Send an email to askhal@homeinteriorguide.com with your name, location, and question.

About Hal Eisen

Halcyon Designs

Hal Eisen is currently the on camera Co-host and Design Consultant for the series DESIGN MATCH, which airs on HGTV Canada and USA. Hal has designed for personal clients across both countries and created events everywhere, from the pool at the old L.A. Athletic Club to the penthouse of the new Trump World Tower in New York.

He is no stranger to the "Lifestyle" T.V. airways either; having appeared as one of the resident, on camera designers on HGTV Canada's LOVE BY DESIGN and HGTV USA's DATE WITH DESIGN.

As a Co-Production Designer, with partner Andrew Bottecchia, Hal has worked on two seasons of HDTV's TRASH TO TREASURE, a FOOD Network pilot called PIECE OF CAKE and a new pilot for West Wind Pictures called PLASTERED; where he also appeared as the guest designer. Before Design Match, he was the Associate Production Designer on HGTV Canada/USA "new" DESIGNER GUYS series for their first season.

You can contact Hal at (416) 533-5508 or at eisen333@hotmail.com