Sizing up what you have to begin the design process

Often the most difficult part of the design process is finding the time and energy to get your project underway. Industry professional Stephen Saint-Onge recently spoke with The Kansas City Star and shared his insights on how amateur designers can size up what they have to see what will work in their new space.

Saint-Onge recently released his new book, No Place Like Home, in which he advocates that homeowners sift through design magazines and furniture stores to find patterns of what will go together. After a bit of research, designers will be able to take their ideas off the page and into their living area.

Saint-Onge also believes that the design process can center around a specific object and the rest of the room's aesthetic can grow from there. A certain window blind or shade, curtains or even a throw pillow could be a functional starting point.

The use of light in your redesigned living space is essential to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, so consider the addition of honeycomb cellular shades. This design uses cell technology to control air leakage, which could save homeowners money on their next utility bill.