One-Day Makeovers

Originally published in The Almanac, March 14, 2007
by Marsha Solock, for The Almanac

Enjoy watching Home and Garden Television programs such as "Design Remix" and "FreeStyle?" Do you have a problem room that you would like to makeover or a window that is giving you despair?

If so, you might want to pencil in two workshops at the Bethel Park Community Center: "One Day Room Makeover" on March 24 and "Window Woes to Window Wows!" on April 14.

Both workshops will be taught by certified interior designer, Rhonda Kifer. "My combined years of experience and skills as designer, project manager and business owner lead to teaching opportunities five years ago. Since then I have been presenting creative and educational workshops and training to small groups, design students and design professionals," Kifer said.

BEFORE	AFTER
Color and new window treatments help to transfer corners with a leaded glass window. With a little bit of inspiration and paint, you can make a dramatic impact by adding color to walls.

"One Day Room Makeover" teaches arrangement and placement techniques for furniture and accessories using only the items in your room.

"Just by making a few changes, learned in this workshop, a new look can be created without making any new purchases," Kifer explained. "This workshop is different because students use only the furnishings they have in their home," Kifer said. "In fact, students are encouraged to bring photos of their rooms."

According to Kifer there are several tricks to creating a new look without spending a lot of money. "Use what you have in new ways by exchanging certain pieces and accessories from one room to another," Kifer said. "

For example, she offered these suggestions: take a chest from an overcrowded living room and give it a place of honor in the foyer. Rearrange your furniture in new ways by placing a sofa or loveseat on an angle;

More rearrangement techniques will be shown during the workshop.

"Window Woes to Window Wows!" will give custom designs and quick-style ideas that are easy and inexpensive.

BEFORE	IN PROGRESS	AFTER
An old mantle was found in the attic and restored to hide an access door to storage in a bedroom.

"This workshop gives tips to solve window dilemmas, showing students style ideas and what type of fabric is suitable and sustainable to complement their decor," Kifer said.

Participants in this workshop are encouraged to bring photos of their problem windows to class. "You want your window treatments to be beautiful, as well as, functional, Kifer said. "To choose the right look for your room, think about the mood you want to evoke. If you want a comfortable, casual atmosphere, choose textured fabrics and go with a tailored shape. For a romantic feel, use an abundance of soft sheer or silky fabrics."

Kifer said she enjoys teaching these types of courses for two reasons: "My passion for good design and creating beautiful spaces and my desire to give back and share my experiences with others that will hopefully benefit their lives." The average age of students attending these type of workshops range from the late 20s to late 60s with a ratio of one instructor to a maximum of 10 students. "Creating a home that reflects your lifestyle is so rewarding. Learning how to avoid costly mistakes or how to enhance your home by making just a few small changes will leave you with a sense of confidence and motivation," Kifer said.