News & Seminars

I have resurrected an article I wrote for the Florida Times-Union special publication called Veranda. My responses to this story broke my personal record when I was a contributor to our North Florida newspaper. Tell me what you think:

"We shape our dwellings, and afterward, our dwellings shape us." Winston Churchill

Makeover--to change someone or something; to give them a different appearance or a new use. Cambridge Dictionary

The world today is totally enchanted with the makeover concept. Entire industries have been born to satiate that obsession. The HGTV network covers every conceivable aspect of interior and exterior redesign. Magazines and how-to books continue to pour forth as the never-ending demand for inspiration escalates.

What is all the excitement about? Is a makeover really worth it? Let's ask Marjorie Sutton of St. Augustine as we tour her recently transformed home...

It's the kind of space that makes you feel as if the rest of the world doesn't exist. Maybe that's because of the mesmerizing view of the Atlantic ocean which draws you in as soon as you open the weathered front door. Or perhaps it's the spa blue color that flows like water around the two story great room. Your eyes travel from a nautical chart over the rustic fireplace to the sea grass rugs to the glass cylinders filled with starfish. Whatever the reason, there's an indefinable quality that makes you want to take a deep breath and let all the stress evaporate. But it wasn't always this way...

Marjorie knew she needed help. In her travels, she had collected all kinds of unrelated things. " I left room in my suitcase for those irresistible baubles," she explained. "If I liked something, it came home with me." Problem was, of course, that the house became
somewhat of a museum, verging on claustrophobic. Her style was best described as-in her own words-"schizophrenic"...too many colors, no discernable theme.

She was a candidate for a makeover and she was the first to admit it. "Look at my stack of decorating magazines." she lamented. " I find myself wandering aimlessly through pretty furniture stores. I just like too many things." Sometimes the dizzying array of choices only makes it more confusing. She was mired in the quicksand of indecision. She finally enlisted the help of a designer who inspired a truly magical place.

The first step in a typical makeover is to determine what level of change is needed:
1) Tweaking-rearranging existing accessories and furniture. This is sometimes called "redesign".
2) Gently Restyling- includes wall color changes with new art and some new accessories. Most makeovers fall into this category.
3) Bulldozing- complete remodel, as in new flooring, countertops, cabinetry, etc.

A color scheme is chosen for walls and accents. A great fabric or a piece of art can be the inspiration. You'll need a primary color and a complimentary accent color.

Next, the clutter is addressed. Let's face it! Everyone loves to plant flowers, but no one wants to pull the weeds. "Sometimes one must learn to toss with abandon. It can be liberating," according to Judy Smith, a professional organizer. "If in doubt... throw it out."

Then, the room arrangement is analyzed for balance and symmetry. Traffic patterns are considered. Ease of conversation is always a primary goal. We certainly don't want Fred to strain his voice when he asks Ethyl to " pass the peanuts...for crying out loud."

The homeowners personality should be considered when selecting a theme. Some popular choices: Ralph Lauren/ English library or Ernest Hemingway/ Out of Africa.

Jean Leone of Ponte Vedra chose a Tuscan, wine-country theme for her recent redesign using wrought iron, warm colors, rich rugs on natural stone floors. Her husband's Italian heritage inspired that direction. A rich pumpkin color accented with sage green was splashed around the living areas. You can almost hear the theme from Godfather in the background.

The costs are varied but still average around $75 an hour...slightly more if an assistant is needed. Some designers may ask for a retainer before starting a major project. A brief consultation is a non-threatening way to get the facts. ASID is a great source for qualified designers.

Oprah Winfrey once said of her California residence, "My house sings." She could barely contain her joy in finding and expressing her unique style. Your house is not just a house. It is a living, breathing thing. It reflects your soul...your inner sanctum.

So whether you need a little rearranging or an extreme makeover, the experience can enrich your life in mysterious ways. " I stay home a lot more now," confessed Marjorie.
"No restaurant, club or theater can compete with my home. It embraces me. It's a sonnet. It's a poem. It's me."

Winston Churchill was right.

 

BACKSTAGE 

 

2. ~RESA - Real Estate Staging Association - 

 September RESA Meeting:

If you wish to make your reservations through e-mail -  

 Reservations link   

3. I am starting an official coaching/mentoring opportunity for our students and any staging business owners. Those who stay connected always flourish and grow. Several years ago, I got certified as a lifestyle coach through Dream Mentors International. The concept of accountability and goal-setting works to bring us all up to a higher level of productivity and happiness.

Join us for the monthly mentoring session called "Happy Hour with Becky." We also offer a one-on-one strategy session by appointment. Next conference call is Sept. 12th at 8:00PM EDT. $15 a month to be on the mentoring team. 

We had about 30 on our first call. Get more info... becky@beckyharmon.com We had rave reviews after our last session. Limited space available.

4. Our September Certification Class starts on the 21st - 23rd. Limited space available.

The Online class is usually the first week of each month. The September class is the 10th, 13th and15th. E-mail for the brochure and our HALF PRICE special which has been extended for a few more weeks.

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