Oct 22
I love the color purple and I have seen it in the stores as a hot color for fall. But, this rich and fabulous color has disappeared from the fabrics that we are using in our homes. I have a client that loves all the shades of red and purple, so recently I have spent many hours researching fabrics. I felt challenged to find the right shades for her. In the end, I came up with fabrics the client loved, but I realized we are still behind the time in using the color in our designs.
We will be seeing more of this color in our interior designs, in the next two years. Home fabrics are usually right behind great fashion trends.
Since we have just researched these fabrics, Design Connection Inc would be happy to assist you, if these are the colors you love, and can’t live without.
Check out these sites for some good ideas.
http://www.robertallendesign.com/
http://www.fschumacher.com/
Sep 22
Did you see the article about cork flooring in the Sunday House and Home section of the Kansas City Star? My opinion on cork is that it is a wonderful green alternative material. But… it must be used in the right room with the right conditions. Cork is perfect for a fun playroom because it is soft and durable. However, if you have a traditional kitchen, the casual look of cork would probably not work. It works best with transitional or modern designs. I suggest consulting an interior designer before you make major home improvement decisions. You might be focusing on the qualities of the material, while we can see how it will impact the look of your home. www.designconnectioninc.com 
Design Tip: Cork is a flexible material and can be cut into a variety of sizes. We can create interesting borders orВ patterns just like we would with tile or wood.
Sep 15

DesignTips KC: Adding a medallion in your foyer creates a special detail that creates a great first impression of your home.
Deep, dark, rich colors like chocolate and espresso are the new way to go with your hardwood floors. Things toВ consider with flooring – in addition to color -В are plank width, wood texture and layout patterns. Your floors are an important consideration in the design of your home. They visually tie your rooms together, don’t take them for granted.
We work with www.svbwoodfloors.com for their quality attention to detail.
If you are interested in an interior design consultation contact us! www.designconnectioninc.com
We are onВ facebook and twitter!
Sep 08

This cocktail table can be added to most rooms to add interest or focus.
We get a lot of clients who come to me thinking that their furniture has to match. Nothing could be further from the truth. When every aspect of your room matches, it becomes very boring. Our approach has always been to combine quality pieces that make a statement individually, but work with all the other items in your room.
If you are planning on updating or redesigning your home for the holidays, now is the time to order your new furniture, drapes and custom pieces. We can ensure your holiday delivery date if you order by September 30.
Aug 25
Have you thought about adding some new fall colors to your home now that you are going to start spending more time indoors? I found an intriguing I-Phone application that actually helps you select paint colors. See attached link to Benjamin Moore for a high tech way to get paint color recommendations for your home. As “cool” as this sounds if you feel more comfortable discussing paint with an experienced interior designer who has actually seen many paint color options applied to various settings and lighting conditions, please give me a call and “ask Arlene” about paint for your home.
www.DesignConnectionInc.com
Jun 30
There is an ongoing battle in the design world of trends vs. things you love. Many times we are shamed by decorating gods pushing trends and themes. You go back into your home and look at the things you love and wonder if you need to get rid of them. No you don’t! I feel very strongly about mixing in elements that you love with good design.
Many people chase trends, and become vulnerable to what stores and magazines advocate. But that only leaves you with an overexposed purchase, meaning that you are likely to run into your same lamp at a couple of neighbors and friends homes.
Your life, home and family are unique and your design should reflect that in a comfortable way. If you like a certain look, material or texture, go for it! A designer will show you how to mix and utilize it in a balanced way. We believe in the value of design that you love and one that lasts.
Jun 02
Wallpaper is a great way to spice up a space. We use it mostly in bathrooms and dining rooms to add a pop of interest. Wallpapers come in many designs; we especially like the ones with metallic accents. The papers are of a high quality, and very easy to clean and change when its time for a new look. 
Apr 21
You master bedroom represents your sanctuary, it is the room that helps you rest and relax after a hectic day. Many people neglect their bedroom and it is often the last to be redesigned. Here are some quick fixes to help inspire any bedroom.
Keep it as unisex as possible, focus on brining in masculine and feminine touches with details and accessories. That might mean neutral colors on the walls and bolder pieces of furniture, then a pop of color with throw pillows and a flower arrangement on the nightstand. Pillows and flowers can be changed to match the seasons, which will keep a fresh new feeling all year round.
Tone down the patterns. If you have more than three major patterns, you are on the verge of going overboard. Instead focus on textures and interesting details, this will make your room unique and special. The quality of your materials is always worth it.
Begin with a plan. Start by picking out your color scheme, then move onto fabrics and textiles, try to have a color or theme that brings all the elements together. And remember it is always easier to add items, than take them away. You don’t have to create the perfect bedroom in one day. Good Luck!
Apr 06
When creating a unique and special room you should consider using host and hostess chairs.В В Using host and hostess chairs helpsВ lend aВ presence in any room of your home.В These chairs can be used at the end of a dining table, or used as an accent inВ any room in your home.В The advantages of using upholstered host and hostess chairs can be the addition of another important fabric to the room, which then can enhance the overall scale and color.В The scale of the chairs themselvesВ are very important as proper clearance is needed for arm chairs, especially ifВ being used at a table.В Host and hostess chairs can give great detail to any room.