November 22, 2009
Dear Jessica,I’d like help updating my living room, but am not sure whether to hire an interior designer or an interior decorator. What’s the difference, and how much can I expect to spend for these services? — Jenna, Greensboro Dear Jen...
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November 8, 2009
Dear Jessica,I am building a house in Summerfield and there are a few architectural details that I am struggling with. My question concerns a shelf over the front door and an art niche at the end of a hall. I am not sure what to do with these spaces. Do y...
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October 11, 2009
As an interior designer for over 15 years, I have seen trends come and go, and styles change and evolve. I recently spoke at the Home Design Emporium in Greensboro on the 10 biggest decorating mistakes people make.
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September 13, 2009
Dear Jessica, I will be reupholstering my sofa soon and am considering using a cotton duck or linen-like fabric. What do you think of these fabric choices? — John D., Greensboro Dear John, There are a wide variety of fabrics suitable for upholstery......
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August 23, 2009
Dear Jessica, I just moved into a new home. The floor plan is open, with large windows and a spectacular view of the outdoors. I love the natural light and hate to cover up my windows, but I am now concerned about the sun fading my furniture. Do you have...
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August 2, 2009
Creating a signature space — one that is personal and totally yours — takes time. I compare this process of dressing a room to finding that gorgeous outfit to wear to a big reunion: If you plan ahead, you will find your ideal look that fits pe...
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June 28, 2009
Dear Jessica, I have a kitchen that opens into a great room. I love the open feeling of the two spaces and want to make both areas complement each other. Can you offer me some tips for making over these two rooms? — Molly, Greensboro
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June 14, 2009
A few weeks ago, this column addressed new design trends in the marketplace. The feedback from readers about the latest trends is always fun to read. Among the highlights: People were surprised to hear that purple is the new trendy color, and they questio...
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May 31, 2009
Dear Jessica, I have a two-story wall in my great room that I am not happy with. I’d love to accessorize higher on this wall, but I feel restricted by the furniture I have in place. The hallway blends into the living room. Would you recommend addin...
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May 17, 2009
I just returned from the furniture market feeling inspired by the energy of the show. The High Point Market, which wrapped up April 30, is a great place to assess new trends and keep abreast of all that is happening in the interior design industry.
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April 19, 2009
In the interior design business, there are a number of questions that come up again and again. Paint colors seem to present the most difficulty for clients, followed closely by today’s topic: space planning and room layout. Furniture layout is a key...
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March 29, 2009
A sluggish real estate market is prompting many homeowners to get creative to make their spaces more appealing. During times of uncertainty, home improvement projects can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride. But it pays to consider the best altern...
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March 15, 2009
With houses sitting on the market for months instead of weeks, differentiating your home from the pack is a must. We’ve all heard the saying about getting just one chance to make a first impression. In the current real estate market, curb appeal can...
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March 1, 2009
Dear Jessica, Even though my house was built just 10 years ago, my master bathroom is already in need of serious updating. The brass lighting and bathroom fixtures look very dated and the cherry cabinets appear to accentuate these details. My off-white ce...
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February 14, 2009
Seasonal décor can be uplifting and help set a mood, but it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money or clutter your basement in order to make a design statement. Creating an elegant, understated and tasteful Valentine’s Day display is easy with just...
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January 31, 2009
Dear Jessica, I was planning to get started with a few decorating projects that I’ve had in mind for some time, however, I am wondering if I should hold off until the economy stabilizes. What do you suggest? — Jana, Greensboro Dear Jana, The home de...
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January 10, 2009
The beginning of a new year is the time when many people decide to make resolutions to better their health. Interior design resolutions are probably not at the top of the list of activities that one might plan for a fresh start to the new year, but change...
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December 27, 2008
Dear Jessica, I finally had a family portrait made and am looking at my walls, trying to determine where the picture will fit. I’ve wanted to create a more interesting photo layout for some time, but don’t know how to move past my tendency to hang one...
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December 13, 2008
Dear Jessica, I recently got married and acquired a lot of furniture from family. I like a few pieces very much, but there is some furniture that I don’t know how to fit in with my décor. The extra items aren’t my style, yet I feel obligated to use...
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November 1, 2008
Dear Jessica, I need an area rug for my dining room, but am unsure about what size to get and could use some style tips. Can you steer me in the right direction? — Molly, Greensboro Dear Molly, With so many different styles and types of carpets availa...
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October 4, 2008
Dear Jessica, I'd like to get your ideas for redecorating my bedroom, which tends to be a magnet for clutter and laundry that needs to be sorted. My bedroom is always the messiest room in the house, despite my best efforts to keep it neat and organiz...
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September 20, 2008
Televisions, computers and electronic equipment are such necessities, but even the latest models can be difficult to incorporate into your décor. Since most people can’t get along without their gadgets, one of my goals as an interior designer is to inc...
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September 6, 2008
Dear Jessica, We just purchased a new home. The first floor is very open and the walls have all been painted the same color. I want to repaint some rooms, but I am not sure how to proceed in such an open area. Where should the new color start and stop? C...
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August 23, 2008
The unstructured summer days are winding down. With cooler temperatures on the way, it’s time to relax and enjoy some outdoor entertaining with family and friends.
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August 9, 2008
Dear Jessica, My 3-year-old just moved into a big girl bed and I’d like to redecorate her room. I want to create a fun room that she will not outgrow quickly. I plan to keep her white bedroom furniture, as her crib converted into a bed. My daughter lov...
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