Architectural Digest: Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines Answers All Your Renovating Questions
AD caught up with Joanna to ask her for a few tricks of the trade. Read on for her expert tips.
Where do you encourage clients to look for inspiration?
"When in the beginning stages of discussing the client's style, I always tell them to build an inspiration board on Pinterest to get a feel for what they want in their space. Both Pinterest and Houzz are great starting places when searching for inspiration and nailing down your style."
How do you create the optimal layout for a home?
"I think about the family and their unique needs. Having young children lends itself to adopting more of an open floor plan. If you're an empty nester, you may want to transform a spare bedroom into a workout room or an office. It all depends on your season of life."
How do you keep a space organized but still looking chic?
"A great way to stay organized is to create intentional spaces for toys, craft supplies, and odds and ends. Adequate storage can make every room feel more peaceful and beautiful simply by removing clutter and freeing up visual space. I like unique pieces and if you don't have room for more furniture pieces, use unique baskets, bins, and crates that help organize the mess. Look for practical pieces that tell a story and fit your style.
What are some easy weekend projects that can refresh a home?
"For the interior, simple changes like new light fixtures, a new backsplash, or a fresh coat of paint can go a long way."
What are your top three tips for improving curb appeal?
"Freshening up landscape, adding new shutters and wrapping dated columns with redwood or cedar wood. These are things you can do over the weekend and without killing your budget."
What are the most important design elements to tie together a room or home?
"Don't design your home with meaningless elements simply to get it decorated. Take your time and gather pieces that mean something to you, whether it be family photos, an antique clock or knickknacks that remind you of family. These elements are what makes a house a home. Find pieces that speak to you and give yourself the freedom to tell your story in your own unique way."
What are the important things to look for in a fixer-upper home?
One thing I stress is that every home has potential. But ultimately the potential has to meet the total renovation budget realistically. Always get an inspection and make sure the home is structurally sound."
~Courtesy of AD