Moving from a large and congested one bedroom apartment into a 'bachelor' condominium took a bit of doing.  With clutter reduction, restyling and repurposing existing furniture, this space took on a new, upscaled look that functions perfectly.  Wasted corners were redesigned to function as useable space and unnecessary items, such as the stove, were removed so an orderly open concept, in-home office could be set up.  Wall-to-wall curtain panels were hung on the 'faux' balcony wall to create the illusion of considerably more space while allowing the lights of the city in at night.  Using floor to ceiling art adds height to the space and creates connectivity to the various 'rooms' within this small condo.  Function may follow fashion but in your living space, always think in reverse.  If it does't work, it won't matter how great it looks!


Reinvent your space; it's amazing what you can accomplish.  Furniture grouping is the key to a well composed design. Many spend thousands of remodeling dollars on their living spaces but neglect
the fact that if not properly orchestrated, all their efforts may result in a less than satisfactory and functional space.  Placement of furniture, accessories and lighting, along with harmonius color combinations make a house, home!  Reuse what's already there - just  look at it from a different perspective.

07. 09 Charlotte, here’s my opinion for what it is worth. I think you have a god given gift to be able to visualize what people are trying to create and will guide them through. Each garden is different because you want people to  make it there own so you force them to think on their own as well ( not an easy task).  We could never ever have started this project if we didn’t put our faith in you. We really didn’t know for the most part what we were doing. I can’t count how many times I read your notes to look for info. Than “oh there it is!” I know we made errors along the way and the top half of the yard is what we are really pleased  with how it turned out. Why? Because you guided us. I wanted to use the perennials from the backyard they are some favorites I tried to use them in the front. I am amazed that they took. I guess all the rain helped. When you come over I know you will be able to help with putting the finishing touches that are lacking and you will see. Landscaping is a business, rightly so. However you give it your personal touch and there lies a huge difference. We may not live long enough to achieve a paradise like yours but the enjoyment we will have puttering around in it everyday will be endless.  Initially it was to be my flower garden (it was the past 40ish yrs) but somehow it became our garden now. Gosh that man is in it all the time. 
Eileen attended one of my landscaping classes this past winter and at the end asked if I would come and have a look at hers' and John's front yard.  The live in one of the newer housing developments where everyone has a drainage house sunk in a gully between the adjoining properties.  Neither of them wanted anything remotely typical, or unimaginative and Eileen wanted to be able to sit on her front patio (part of a wish list) and watch her garden mature and expand.  She had a lot of ideas, John picked up on my suggestions relating to those of Eileen's and with far less help than they give me credit for, the took the loosely formed plan and created something unique, completely different to their neighbors in so many ways and the perfect spot for Eileen to enjoy their accomplishments.
Inside, play with what you've got by emptying the room and replacing 1 piece at a time..  You'll be surprised.
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    Charlotte's Place
Landscape & Interior Decor Consultant
        "a work in progress"
       making home your favorite place to be