Home Front

Every week, the Washington Post Home staff talks about various ways to improve your home. Find out about new trends, upcoming antiques shows and a variety of how-to help.

Ask Post staff writers Annie Groer and Jura Koncius about all things home related.

Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion.

You may also browse an archive of previous Home Front discussions.

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Washington DC: I live in a townhouse that I cannot paint. I love color reds, yellows, and lime, and gold. How can I bring color into the house without painting. I have a lovely sofa loveseat and chair, they are a green like tweed and I have wood tables and entertainment center. Help help

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Good morning all...another glorious spring morning for those of us in the DC area....Jura is on vacation in Canada as we speak so it's just Annie here.

Now, time to talk decor.

There are a couple ways to bring in lots of bold color without painting. Curtains are one way -- and you can layer fabrics with a bright silk or cotton panels to the side and some subtle sheers over the windows. For a real jolt, hang the rods at ceiling level.

Artwork -- big, splashy abstracts or landscapes which can be bought fairly inexpensively at stores like Tuesday Morning, Marshall's, Target, etc also can bring in color.

You can also put a quilt on tapestry on the walls, a blast of color on the floor with rugs and scatter a few vivid pillows and throws on the furniture.

And don't forget a vase or two with bright flowers.

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Washington, DC: I'd like to install a new bathroom vanity/sink, but have no idea where to start (I've never done any home renovation). How do I go about finding a reputable serviceperson to install one?

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DC - Because this project involves plumbing (yes, it's pretty basic to unhook one sink and hook another up)it's one of those jobs I'd leave to a plumber. I know some of you might take issue and say that would be money down the drain (so to speak). But I know my own limitations.

So, if you feel up to the job (and you have a paid-up homeowner's or renter's insurance policy) go ahead.

Otherwise, measure the space carefully and look for a cool vanity and sink combo at any of the big-box stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, Expo Design Center, etc. Or if you have a fun piece of furniture that would work as a vanity, you only have to worry about picking out a sink.

Are there any novices out there for whom a sink/vanity installation was their first project? If so, how did it come out?

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Rockville, Md: I want to replace my 20 year-old Formica kitchen countertops with Silestone. Do I have to cave in and get an under-mount sink? I really would prefer a new, stainless steel, double, drop-in like I already have. I notice that people who have the undermounts buy all kinds of stainless steel "holders' for scrubbers, etc.whereas I aleady have plenty of flat, easy-to-clean stainless space on the rear of my sink.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Rockville - Annie has a nice deep stainless drop-in sink smack in the middle of her "Stellar Night" Silestone and is very happy. From time to time, it may be necessary to take a toothpick or toothbrush and go around the edge of the sink to dislodge a bit of grunge build-up, but it's an okay aesthetic tradeoff, she thinks.

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Splittsville: I really enjoyed today's article about post-divorce decor. I just finalized my divorce last week, and I've been viewing my new apartment as a constructive way to stick it to the ex.

My sleeping area is girly blue with fluffy white sheets. I hang photos of all the friends he never liked. And, because the closet is all mine, I've converted it into a high-gloss fashion shrine that I refer to as "The Boutique."

And, now, on to my question. How do you stay under budget when doing a post-divorce home makeover? I've had to resist the urge to say, "I deserve it! I've been through a hard time so my apartment really needs X." Naturally, my income isn't what it was, so I need to keep things under control.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Splitsville - Oooh, the closet sounds yummy. The Boutique, indeed.

One way of saving money is to ask friends if they have any furniture stashed in the attic, basement or garage that they wouldn't mind passing along.

If it's a gift rather than a loan, this frees you to paint, faux finish or even cut down the legs of your new treasure.

And they get to declutter and help a friend.

There are also good consignment shops in this area (Jura and I are about to update the survey we did five years ago)

where you can get very stylish, good pieces at a fraction of their original cost. Ditto for moving and estate sales, the Washington Post classifieds, neighborhood list serves, etc.

Check out fabric stores for remnants and discount stores for cute decorative accessories.

As for the "I deserve it" rationale, everytime you have that urge, put all or part of the money you spent in a special fund. Half can be used for an emergency (new brakes for the car and other pesky life events) and the other half can be a really big treat (I have one friend who is using her fund to have a mini-facelift this summer. She's been saving this way for a couple of years.)

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installing a vanity: assuming the existing shutoff valves are operable, this is a pretty simple job. As a complete novice, my first plumbing forray involved replacing a toilet fill and flapper mechanism, and I replaced the input line with a flex tube at the same time. For the uninitiated, it sounds more daunting than it really was. Just take the time to read instructions carefully.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear IV - Thanks for the encouragement. And you're right, the toilet job did sound impressively daunting.

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Washington, DC: I rent a studio apartment and am desperate for more storage place. I was thinking of buying an elegant-looking armoire for the living room. What do you think and do you have any other suggestions? Thanks.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DC - Armoires are a good solution, but since your space is small, stick to something light. If it is too dark, the piece can look like a hulking space-eater. Also, you can make end tables out of large, lidded baskets, and ditto for a coffee table. Also, consider buying an ottoman with a flip-top so you get seating and storage in a single piece.

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Triangle, Va: What kind of window treatments do you recommend for a below-ground basement? We have several small (20"x10"?) windows that provide much-needed sunlight, but we want privacy too. I was thinking of using a decal/adhesive film that imitates stained glass or privacy glass.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Triangle - That would be just the solution. If light is an issue, go for opaque or textured clear rather than colored "stained glass" film.

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Guest Bedroom: I have a dark traditional full sized bed that I will use in a guest room. The duvet and bedding will be pale blue, yellows and greens. Walls will be pale blue. Wood floors, white trim in room. Haven't decided on curtains.

If I am looking for a dresser and night stand...should I look for the same dark wood to match? Or could I mix some white furniture in to lighten the room up and go with the beachy theme I have in mind? I don't want to paint the bed, so will it stick out like a sore thumb?

Thanks! Love your chats!

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear GB - Lucky guests, they'll have a nice place to overnight. By all means, go beachy with white furniture. It will be fine. You can pick up the dark wood in picture frames and a full length mirror mounted on the back of the door (because guests often need to know how they look before they emerge to join their hosts.)

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District Hgts, Md: Hi Anne and Jura -

I hope you can help.

My fiance and I are moving into our first home; a condo with 1,000 total square footage. Not a lot of room to play with. Are there any basic painting (color schemes) furniture arrangements you can recommend for a condo of this size?

Thanks.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DH - Congrats on the new digs. Keep the ceilings all one color; perhaps consider two or three sleek but comfy easy chairs instead of a big, honking sofa; get a round table instead of a rectangle, which takes up more space.

Vertical elements such as pictures and drapes draw the eye upward. And mirrors can expand a room.

Hope that helps. Plus, keep only what you love. The sooner you declutter, the better.

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Alexandria, Va: Hello, I have changed from a dark wood bed with both a headboard and footboard to a light wood headboard only. I don't want a spread that goes to the floor nor do I want a dust collecting dust ruffle. I like the illusion of openness under the bed. The problem is the feet to bedframe show. Is there a way to make the feet look better? Thanks

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Alexandria - We suggest reconsidering a dust ruffle, but one that is maybe two inches off the floor if dust is an issue for you. The problem with bed frame legs (and their wheels) is that they are ugly. You might try painting them, but somehow we're not sure that will work.

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Art shows: I sometimes see those art shows in hotels advertised on TV - what are they like and when's the next one?

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Art Show - You don't say where you live so we can't help you on the "next" art show, but all manner of pictures are on sale..."original oils" that are painted assembly line style, prints - framed and unframed, photos, etc.

Since art is in the eye of the beholder, if the paintings or prints work for you, go for it.

But lots of jurisdictions have local art shows, street fairs, etc. Ditto for flea markets.

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Downtown Condoville, D.C.: Any thoughts on a pale, pale crystal/sky-ish blue for a bedroom? I'd like to stick to Benjamin Moore and was thinking Windmill Wings or White Satin, but am open to other ideas.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Condoville - Yummy colors, both. White Satin is a very pale, baby blue. Windmill wings a shade darker. Blues are very restful so either should work.

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Mastercraft Interiors: Do you think it's worth going to the liquidation sale tomorrow? Should I only buy what I can take with me then? I'm one of the unlucky customers out a deposit on furniture but could still use small decor items.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear MI - If you still have your paperwork showing that you are out a deposit, I'd seriously consider taking it along to the store and see if you can barter the amount for merchandise. It's a total shot in the dark and probably won't work, but it doesn't cost a thing to try.

As for whether to return to the scene of the crime, that's your call. If you decide to hit the sale, buy what you can take but only, only if you love it.

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Alexandria, Va: earlier a post "wash DC" asked the question about finding a reputable installer for plumbing/sink installation

you didn't touch on their question so if you will pass on to them to check out several

"servicepro" finding companies for their locale, or go to the local jurisdiction (I assume DC) and find out that the comp is licensed, bonded, had any complaints, etc.

you can find out if they own a class A license before you hire anyone you are not familiar with

check with the BBB also

protect yourself if you contract out to have someone do the work for you- don't blindly hire a "sink/plumber installer" and not know what your getting

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Alexandria - Great advice. I had suggested, but perhaps did not make myself clear enough, that the installer be gotten through the store where he/she bought the vanity on the grounds that the store had already vetted said installer.

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Washington, DC: What's the word on mixing wood and styles? Unlike the earlier poster, I'd like to keep wood its natural color, if possible. I was thinking of a round pedestal table, but I like the Craftsman style buffet.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DC - Go for it. There are people who really like all their furniture to be of a particular style and others who think that is entirely too "matchy, matchy." It's your home, you make the rules.

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Washington, D.C. : I'm hoping you ladies can help me. I rent an apartment and the bathroom is just gross. The shower desperately needs to be recaulked- which I'm planning on doing (because my landlord is the one who messed it up in the first place) and the tub has rust spots in it. (The apt is pretty old). The tiles on the floor are white, but no matter how much I get down and scrub them (literally) I can't get rid of the black spots on the tiles. And the cabinet doors under the sick are a gross, peeling, dark brown. Do you have any suggestions on how I can make the bathroom look nicer? It's my only complaint. The rest of the apt is beautiful. Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DC - The first thing I'd do is invite the landlord or a rep to the bathroom, or send digital pictures. If it is that gross, perhaps you can convince the higher powers to replace it. You might also ask the landlord to spring for tub reglazing (it runs about $300, or ask if you can arrange to have it done in white and deduct it from your rent). If not, I would get a large rug to cover much of the tiles, a large clear or white tub mat to obscure as much of the rust as possble and I would attempt to paint the vanity doors, though I suspect they are probably made of laminate, which would make it nearly impossible.

Don't forget a nice shower curtain and towels.

Good luck.

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Washington DC: Can you recommend a great place to buy rugs in the DC area? We're trying to avoid buying at the big chain stores like Pottery Barn & Crate, etc. I loved the rugs at Timothy Paul on 14th Street, but they were a little too pricey for me. Looking for large kilims and perhaps some more modern rugs. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear DC - We've gotten a couple of rug questions this morning, which I will deal with collectively by mentioning one of our favorite and extensive sources of floor coverings in the area...

The GreenFronts sells rugs, furniture, accessories, etc.

There are two locations in this area: In Sterling, at 1304 A Severn Way (703-406-0761) or the original down in Farmville, Va., a small town that GreenFront has revived by putting its wares in gorgeous old mills and other decades-old buildings - 316 N. Main St. Farmville. 434-392-5943.

Jura is planning a story on these folks in the next few months. It's an easy and fun day trip.

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Fairfax, Va: What has happened in DC with furniture stores? Stanis is closing, Mastercraft went bankrupt and Colony House closed the Centreville store?

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Fairfax - Alas, it's the ruthlessness of the marketplace, high local the growth of national chains such as Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, Storehouse, etc., the proliferation of discounters, the movement offshore to Asia for a lot of manufacturing. And it is really too bad.

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Yucky Bathroom: They sell these little tile kits at homedepot that consist of little tile pieces that fit all around the bath where the tub hits the tile. They come with easy instructions and a toothpaste-like tube of caulk. There are a few colors to choose from. It is a great temporary fix, and if your landlord doesn't pay much attention to detail, then he'll never notice it when you move out.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Yucky - Great idea...they are called half-rounds, I believe, and Annie just had this done to her old condo tub (after it was reglazed) and it looks really good.

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Washington, D.C.: I am getting ready to interview an interior decorator for a re-do of my living and dining rooms. What questions should I ask her, other than the obvious ones about fees?

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Ask if she has a minimum number of hours or a minimum charge per project, what her markup is, what her favorite styles or eras are, how busy she is, how much time she's taking off this summer. At your end, be frank about your budget, any deadlines (must be finished by Labor Day or Halloween), allergies to feathers or other materials, presence of kids/pets, etc, colors you love and hate, etc.

And if you haven't already gathered together pictures of "dream room" or pieces of furniture or "looks" you like, do that, too.

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Fairfax City, Va: Any idea where a homeowner could buy some of those metal mesh chairs and tables that many downtown D.C. restaurants use for sidewalk dining? I think they are aluminum. They are stackable, lightweight and easy to move around in different configurations--perfect for patio parties. I've asked at a couple places, but the wait staff never seem to know.

Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Dear Fairfax City - They are called the Ronde Chair and are sold by Design Within Reach (there's one in Georgetown, another in Adams Morgan) and they're $98 each. go to the www.dwr.com website and check them out. right now they are offering free shipping.

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Annie Groer and Jura Koncius: Thanks all...we're out of town...Catch us both next week when Jura returns from north of the border.

Cheers,

annie

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