Pleasing Vista

Don't have great view? Create a small garden or other pleasing vista right outside the window

Homes with a view often command higher prices and have a prestige that comes from mountain, lake or ocean vistas. But whether you have a natural view or not, your windows can transport you visually. Clever decorating can help you maximize your views, or even create views if they're lacking in your home.

START WITH WHAT YOU HAVE

If your home enjoys a sweeping vista, play up the view by making your furnishings more restrained. That doesn't mean you have to select a modern style. Just make sure the rooms aren't overly fussy with decor and accessories. They should be comfortable in design but not overdone so as to detract from the view.

A room with a pretty view should also be arranged to enjoy the landscape or cityscape. It sounds like common sense, but many times furniture is turned away from the view. Arrange furnishings so the seating is complementary to both the occupants and the panorama. Beautiful vistas call for simplified window treatments. Window dressings that frame the windows will soften hard edges but won't interfere with the view.

If your home has large windows, nighttime can create what appear to be large mirrors out of the panes of glass. Instead of having a view, the room will look like a box with mirrored sides. To preserve a view even at night, install landscape lighting outside to extend the view.

NO VIEW? CREATE ONE

Some homes have a view that's unappealing, or no view at all. However, with ingenious decorating, you can create a view, or at the very least, a scene that will provide some visual perspective. For example, if your largest window is at the front of your house and the view beyond is your neighbor's home, creating a small garden scene outside your window will provide a more attractive view.

To create the effect, add a small fence or hedge outside the window. Next, select a focal point. This could be a specimen plant, a water feature, or a garden sculpture. If you have a bathroom or bedroom that would benefit from a view, adding a fence and landscaped scene will create interest while still providing privacy. If your home is small, windows and views can visually expand the size of your home.

THE VIEW GOES ON

Don't forget that when you have windows you enjoy looking out of, you also have windows to look in. Use good design to create a view that's as enjoyable looking in as it is looking out. Work to outline the view looking in and use the windows to form a picture frame of your room. Make sure there's a focal point as you look into the windows to keep the view balanced and attractive.

Views that you create yourself don't have to be panoramic to be enjoyable and relaxing. Simply shifting your gaze to the world beyond the windows can open up and make your home more enjoyable on the whole.

 

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For more Home Decorating, Interior Design, Home Renovation & Improvement (Click Here)

 

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