DTLA LIFE MAG #21 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | Página 68

there are those times when you just want a little privacy. Below are a few things we have found that work well: Our favorite look in a contemporary setting is Solar Shades. They let light in; you can see out however people can’t see in. They are a roller shade. They can be motorized or have a continuous cord or chain, and they work great on either large or small windows. They also come in countless patterns and colors, so there is something for every look. There are lots of options: We love woven woods, and the unlined versions let in a lot of lights. Another great option is the accordion - light filtering blinds. They allow a lot of lights in and give you a filtered view. However, if you are standing close to them, your silhouette can be seen. The mechanism is the next choice. In a loft, the top down bottom up shade is a great solution, as you can manipulate it to let light in but block peering eyes. The strings can be a bit annoying so perhaps only use these if you have small windows. Budget Joys Q: When purchasing furniture and accessories for your house, what’s the best piece to invest? What are the best décor items to buy at a lower cost point? I recently moved from a small one-bedroom apartment to a three-bedroom townhouse and were struggling with how to allocate the budget. Kelly R. A: Cathi Marcoly We get asked this question a lot, and for good reason! When decorating a room, sometimes it gets overwhelming to think about all the things you need to buy! So, here’s our advice for a few rooms: Living Room- You will never regret investing in a wellmade sofa upholstered in a durable fabric. We tend to advise using a neutral because no matter what your favorite color becomes over time, it stays relevant. You can save on pillows, lamps and window treatments since there are many great shopping resources available to purchase these items affordably. It can allow you to update and modify your colors more often. Bedroom- Invest in a good mattress! It is important for your wellbeing: Be sure to buy something that is comfortable and supportive for you. You can save on the bed by buying an affordable cute or stylish upholstered headboard. Bedding can also be obtained very affordable stores like Home Goods or major depart A