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Interior Design Tips from On The Inside Design

Jeanine Naviaux of On The Inside Design shares the following decorating tips she uses in working with clients to create comfortable dream homes

Designer of the Times:

• When working with a designer they will ask you lots of questions. Have fun talking about yourself and enjoy the process - the designer picks your brain to make you happy.
• Tell the designer what you like and especially what you don't like - they can't read your mind!
• Always treat the workers in your home really well - buy them lunch and lots of water.
• Be considerate of your designer's time, and remember a bottle of wine goes a long way!

A Space of My Own:

• Buy online at CB2.com or shop in person at West Elm Hold It Contemporary Home in San Diego.
• Try to bring colors into a room. One colored wall with a great photo or artwork on it is enough.
• A design crew can hang your pictures in just the right places, and pieces that are important you can be reframed for a fresh new look.
• Don't buy prepackaged CDs from stores like Pottery Barn and Brookstone - instead get out your iPod and make your own mix!
• A designer understands the importance of the plasma TV, yet you need to be willing to choose a nice rug to place in front of the fireplace for when that becomes the focal point of the evening.
• The most important focal point is always the view so make sure to let the light in.
• Great patio furniture is a must - this means nothing plastic!

That's Entertainment:

• Don't have a martini set unless you know how to make one and have a wide selection of liquor.
• You can keep a stock of red and white wines from Cost Plus World Market.
• Their snacks are also exotic and impressive. Remember to serve them in your own dishes, not in the bags or boxes you bought them in. Store bought guacamole and salsa are great ideas too.
• Have the basics in your new pad including cold beer for your friends along with white wine and sweets for the girl you are trying to impress.

Out with the Old:

• You are not living in the dorms anymore. Clean sheets and towels - no holes! No exceptions!
• Buy nice glasses and plates- even Wal-Mart has interesting designs now.
• Buy a new couch and have at least two chairs for your friends to lounge in.
• Find a good house cleaning crew - they are worth their weight in gold and can even take your dry cleaning in for you and stock your new place with cleaning supplies.