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Behind the walls of a remodel Open your eyes to interior architectural details when considering major construction. By Courtney EllisPublished: August, 2010

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I’m always asked what the difference is between an interior decorator versus an interior architectural designer. For me, my passion is making the architectural elements match the design and furnishing that we place in a space. In a first walk through a client’s home, I can’t help but look at the interior architecture details of the space. I need to make sure that the visions my client has for their space, will also be reflected down to the architectural details. I’m going to give you a closer look at a project we have been working on this past season. We are at the point of furnishing, but I thought it would be great to show you this before all the finishing touches are put in place. Even without furniture I love how balanced this room feels now that the fireplace and windows are to scale with the high ceiling.   Take a look at the architectural elements in your space and consider if they will coordinate with the style of interior you are hoping to achieve. Below are items we adjusted in my clients’ home and tips that you can consider when thinking of a remodel. To the left is the space before the remodel. Windows: Most clients updating their windows don’t take into consideration the size, shape and location of a window. The slightest changes can make a huge difference in the over all look of a room. In this design each window was dropped right to the floor and raised a foot and a half for a more balanced look.    Fireboxes: Make sure the firebox is the right size for the mantel you are using. This project we replaced the short box with a 42” box that is much taller and rest only 3” off the ground. I had custom glass doors made with decorative handles, no more black hole for this room.    Mantels: When looking at fireplace surrounds always remember that anything can be done, don’t just look in the catalogues and think that is all there is. This mantel and over mantel was custom made for this space and did not cost much more than the standard designs.     Lighting: Dropping a chandelier in a space that has a high ceiling brings it more into perspective. Always put lighting on a dimmer, soft lighting is key. One touch I love is adding the electrical outlet built into the top of the mantel, I love placing large lit up garlands on the fireplace for the holidays and so does this client! Drapery hardware: Custom hardware is best when you have those awkward spaces. We were able to order the poles the exact length that we need for this space so there are no extension rods. These rods come with a custom bend for the corner so we did not have to have the awkward corner connector. I love using these reverse ram horn finials, especially when spaces are tight.   Drapery panels: Don’t be scared to get a quote for custom panels. You get something that no one else has! When you consider the cost of panels at some of the mainstream stores, it’s definitely worth looking into. Stationary panels are great when you are never going to shut the drapery, but still want to add warmth and color to a space.    Just ask your designer/architect: Almost anything can be done or made custom, just because you haven’t seen it out there doesn’t mean that it can’t be made! I always say it doesn’t hurt to get a quote and normally my clients are always surprised with the end result.   Ellis Design Group also did the full remodel of this entire home, check out our website for future pictures of this home remodel being furnished ellisdg.com Courtney with Ellis Design Group can also be reached at courtney@ellisdg.com

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