Nicole LeBlanc is an interior designer based in San Diego that spent the past three years employed by an international architecture and interior design firm. A recent entrepreneur, Nicole is preparing for the launch of her own interior design firm, Outlet, which is sure to become a sought-after local design essential.
The one design rule Nicole always sticks to is the K.I.S.S rule. And it is as follows: Keep It Simple Stupid. It’s a no fail way to keep your chach kee- loving, alter ego, in check. Nicole also notes that the majority of interior trends follow fashion trends. Typically you'll notice that what was popular in fashion last spring, will be making its way to an interior, near you, shortly.
Discover five design savvy tips for spring cleaning your interiors from Nicole LeBlanc of Outlet Interior Design:
First major overhaul: remove all heavy fabrics such as velvets, damasks and such. Think about simply switching them out for sheers, linens and bright pops of color. Change out pillow slip covers, drapery & try changing out area rugs to a more natural spring textile like jute.
Enjoy a mimosa: This is the new black, expect to see this wonderful interpretation through color on just about everything. Be careful not to overdo it though… you don't want to drown in your mimosa. Quick, tiny splashes will do! Keep it crisp against freshly painted white walls and or accents.
Something borrowed: I'm an avid fan of thrifting, so when I'm looking for some inspiration, I venture to my few favorite thrift stores for some visual stimulation and quite possibly, a new pair of vintage shoes.. Spring is a great time to drop of all your junk and do some collecting.. mom always said, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure!”Look for green- colored glass trinkets, small white porcelain chach kees or some pops of silver and gold (small quantities) that have a hint of nostalgia to them. Also keep your eye open for a diamond in the rough. If you have the time, spring is a great time to refurbish out dated furniture. The power of paint never ceases to amaze me.
Bring the bling: Now that you'll actually want to keep your windows and doors open to allow the sun light in, maximize that effort with touches of bling! Any sort of reflective surface, such as glass, mirrors and high gloss pieces will help reflect the light in the room and, in this case, keep in mind the golden rule... Less is More!
Farmer’s market: San Diego has some of the best farmers markets and why not work your new spring attire at your local one! It’s a perfect place pick up some local fresh flowers that radiate spring. Nothing says spring time more than fresh cut flowers in your killer new vintage vase(see tip #3). Fruit is also a great way to add subtle pops of color. Think citrus, oranges, yellows, greens. Another great idea for those people with the not- so- green thumb are succulents. They’re easy to maintain, provide a great aesthetic look to any space and, in my case, very hard to kill.
Need some assistance? Contact Nicole LeBlanc here.
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