Ask Robin: A Welcome Glow

Holiday time is upon us!!! Wonder, excitement, and oh my goodness, ANXIETY fill the air. Family and friends are soon to arrive at your doorstep. And so, the burning question… how to fill my home with the warm glow of “welcome?”

It’s important to set the mood from the get go. My suggestion: don’t settle for the same ol’ pinecone display — step it up! Try a beautiful fresh magnolia flower, or a succulent wreath on your freshly painted front door. Flank the entry with unusually shaped topiary, or a poinsettia of the golden or peachy variety. Fill a fountain with small mum containers of burgundy, rust and orange.

Break out your fine silver, crystal, or porcelain candlesticks and fill a mantle with candlelight. Freshen family photos by updating subject matter, and shopping the one cent sales for new frames. Choose similar finishes for the frames and group them on an entry console.
— Robin Raznick

Designer Tip
Fresh sheets, throw pillows, blankets, and flowers can brighten up a dull guest room. These items need not be expensive. Shop online sales and discount stores. If your home can be chilly, consider flannel sheets and a down or heavyweight comforter. Be sure to put out a valet to support a suitcase, and a pack of new hangers in the closet. An amenties basket with shampoo, candle, and lotion is a welcome touch.
Robin Dana Designs
619-985-3184

Ask Robin
My husband and I plan to put wood flooring in our living room. We’d like to keep some of our existing furnishings and add new pieces. We also need ideas on rearranging the space so it functions as a multipurpose, great room area. Should we consult a design professional?
— Cathy Ripka

Dear Cathy,
I absolutely would consult a design professional. One misconception is that a design consultant will cost too much money. In my experience, a professional will help streamline your efforts in both time and cost by helping you to budget, plan out the space, and avoid mistakes in the purchase of furniture and finishes.

Have a decorating dilemma?
Send your design questions to robin@lismagazine.com.