For those of you following my column, we have been remodeling a beautiful condo on the water in Mexico.
This three-bedroom unit was built and furnished in 2008. Our goal is to bring everything in on-time and on-budget so that the owners can list the condo for sale by Jan. 1, 2019.
It is so exciting to start receiving all our new décor items, including artwork, rugs, throw cushions and lighting. To me, that is when we can tie everything together and bring our vision to life.
Our décor theme is Mexico Beach style. We have hand-selected each item so that the colors, textures, and shapes will work together to create the relaxing environment we envision.
Here are some tips on how to arrange the décor in your home to make a professional, welcoming look.
Don’t overdo it! Remember that a few strategically placed items that are higher end are better than too many lower-cost items. We have chosen some beautiful teal-and-gold cushions and throws that are well made. This will give our condo a beautiful splash of color. We want this property to command the highest price when it is time to list, so the décor items need to reflect quality, not quantity.
Use mirrors to increase the light and space in smaller rooms or areas. Mirrors are not only functional, but they are also a dramatic décor item. Look for unique frames to really make a statement and standout piece.
Make sure artwork and wall art are scaled correctly for the size of the wall. Although you may be used to hanging your art higher, the rule of thumb for artwork height is to place it so that the focus or middle of the piece is between 57 and 60 inches from the floor.
Warm up spaces with rugs. There are generally three dimensions: 5 x 8, 8 x 10 or 9 x 12. With a 5 x 8 rug, you put it in front of your sofa without the legs on. With a 9 x 12 rug, either the front legs go on or the whole piece goes on. Either way, a beautiful statement rug is an excellent addition.
Style your surfaces. There are tricks to making your coffee table and dressers look polished and professional. Select décor items with different height, so there is variety. You can never go wrong with a beautiful tall hurricane lamp or vase for fresh flowers. Stack some hardcover coffee table books and on top put a quirky art piece like a figurine or small statue. This makes a great conversation starter. Always keep in mind the power of three. A set of three items on a dresser such as obelisks or candle holders, in different heights, looks professional and luxurious.
Stage your beds. A bed should be inviting, with layered linens. For sophisticated, modern bedrooms, stick with solids. For relaxed décor styles, patterns in soft neutral colors are best. Always fold back your duvet or cover so that your beautiful crisp linens are shown. This makes it more inviting. The rule of thumb for pillow placement is to put euro shams first, then standard size pillows and then an odd number of accent pillows.
Next week: Check in to see how it comes together.
Sheryl Novak is an expat from Canada who has owned a home in Mexico for over 10 years. She is the owner of SOLutions Mexico, an online furniture store and an expert on sourcing all styles of furniture, for all budgets, in Mexico.
