The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style is a book on contemporary home design. Author Jole Allen covers the basics of interior design, with special reference to the contemporary home style. This is a book that is a great companion to Interior Design for the Home. The principles of design applied in this text are the same as those found in IDH, but the style is different. This text provides easy access and clear explanations of concepts involved in contemporary home design.
The principles of interior design discussed in The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style include the balanced combination of form and function, light and color, proportion, and space planning. Interior designers learn how to use materials in their most effective ways. They also learn how to choose functional furniture such as cabinets and matching pieces. Interior designers learn how to choose the right wall paint and carpeting. They also learn how to select contrasting but complimentary wallpaper and curtains.
Interior designers learn that contemporary designs follow specific rules. These rules allow interior designers to create appealing and functional spaces. The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style is the perfect companion to an interior design course or consultant. A contemporary home style should not be hard to understand; however, it does require some advance knowledge of interior design.
The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style text starts with an introduction to basic styles, then goes through various interior design techniques, finishes, and accessories. There are also short chapters that discuss furniture types, color schemes, and flooring. Text includes a glossary of interior design terms, complete with symbols and pictures.
A glossary of interior design terms provides a quick reference guide to popular interior design terms. Interior designers can benefit from this type of text when planning a project. Interior Design by Steven Bridges provides an easy-to-read introduction to elements of contemporary design. The text begins with an overview of key terms. Pages include topics such as “Shabby chic,” “Gothic,” “Celtic,” “Chic furniture,” and “Lifestyle architecture.” A few pages explain why certain styles of furniture are suited to particular rooms, and then why certain styles of curtains or rugs are suitable for certain rooms.
The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style text contains detailed instructions for paint spraying, staining, and finishing the paint on walls and furniture. The text includes a detailed explanation of a paint mixing technique that aids in creating a variety of colors. It includes tips on using stencils and stamps, on layering, and on textured walls. Interior designers will find a wealth of information concerning textured wall paper, stencils, and paint coasters. The text discusses different effects that can be achieved with paint spraying and then explains how to use textured wall paper and stamps effectively.
A few pages include photographs of contemporary tables and chairs, a contemporary dining room, and a bedroom designed according to the Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style. In addition, homeowners may want to check out a sample chapter entitled “Colors and Letters,” which includes an explanation of painting color and its effects. The text also covers the various techniques homeowners should use to design their kitchens and bathrooms, including selecting paint colors. The last two chapters of the text, “Dressing Ideas,” provide elegant bathroom and kitchen designing ideas, as well as “Building Your Own Bedroom,” “Shaping Rooms,” and” Tulsi Timing,” which each describe decorative furnishings in detail.
The Basics of Decorating in Contemporary Style is a handy primer for the novice interior designer, and its detailed explanations of interior design concepts are sure to inspire even the most inexperienced of homeowners. Moreover, the book’s format keeps readers interested from start to finish, and the numerous appendices ensure that many different interior design styles will be understood within its pages. Additionally, the book comes complete with bonus materials that provide decorating ideas for the home, such as do-it-yourself stencils and fabric swatches. Interior designers will also find valuable tips on coordinating furniture, appliances, flooring, lighting, cabinets, doors, and window treatments. In sum, this is a handy, comprehensive guide for anyone interested in learning the basics of interior design.