March 2021 | Page 92

SPECIAL home

ADVERTISING SECTION expert

Ask the

Janelle Blakely Photopoulos , Owner and Creative Director of Blakely Interior Design

Q & A

1 . I ’ VE ALWAYS PLAYED IT SAFE WITH COLOR IN MY HOME . HOW CAN I START TO INTRODUCE BOLD COLOR ?
Using color in a space is all about balance . Start by figuring out your tolerance level for brave hues by incorporating pieces that are low investment . Once you ’ re comfortable with that , you could introduce vibrant upholstered furnishings , or an eye-catching wallpaper . Use your neutral colors to harmonize the color palette and balance these pops of color .
2 . WE ’ RE PLANNING ON BUILDING OUR DREAM HOME NEXT YEAR . WHEN SHOULD I INVOLVE A DESIGNER ?
Involving a designer from the start ensures cohesion and intentional design throughout the project , so the sooner the better ! Most people don ’ t know just how many decisions a designer can influence from the beginning ( and there are thousands of decisions to make when building a home ). A designer acts as your liaison throughout the project , working with the architect and builder to ensure your goals are met , streamline the process , save you money and achieve the home of your dreams !
3 . I ’ M AFRAID TO INVEST IN MY INTERIOR BECAUSE I HAVE KIDS AND PETS . WILL I EVER HAVE A BEAUTIFUL HOME ?
Why wait until retirement to have a home you love ? Our homes are meant to be thoroughly lived in , which is why performance fabrics and materials were made . A designer will choose materials that will stand up to the wear and tear , and can guide you on where to invest in the right pieces that are made to last .
650 Ten Rod Rd . | North Kingstown , RI | blakelyinteriordesign . com
90 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l MARCH 2021