DECORATING ON A BUDGET
My husband and I recently purchased a weekend house, but now that we have it, we are low on funds to furnish it. It's quite rustic, by the sea and certainly not "grand." We need a place just to relax and, from time to time, have over a few friends or family members. It doesn't have to be elegant, but we do need something.
Carol Murphy
Hartford, Connecticut

This is a project with which you can have a lot of fun. Since the house doesn't have to be authentic or perfect, you can let your imagination run wild. First, start with a clean shell. Paint all of the interiors white except the floor, which could be a sky blue, navy blue, green or barn red. Then head for the yard sales and flea markets for useful wooden pieces (bureaus, end tables, dining tables and chairs). Don't worry about the finishes or colors because you're going to paint everything white. (Perhaps you can paint one small piece purple or teal.) This will create a space that is always clean and fresh. On your travels, look for big, comfy upholstered sofas and chairs, and slipcover them all in the same white canvas or (washable) ticking stripe. Put up some white shelves and add collections of shells or amusing whatnots. Remember, keep it bright and simple, and don't be timid.

SETTING UP AN IN-HOME OFFICE
My husband, who is an attorney, has moved his office to our home. The space is quite small, but he does want to see clients here and have it seem professional. Is there any way that I can achieve this?
Jean Smith
Davenport, Iowa
When you have an office where people come in, it is important to keep a professional air about it. York Wallcoverings has come to the rescue. The photograph shown here is from York's Carey Lind For Men collection. It features a life-size trompe l’oeil bookcase replete with lawyerly like bindings and accessories, not to mention a pediment border on top and carved column moldings. It's a great bookcase and, best of all, it requires no space! The wallcoverings create more of a men's club atmosphere... very impressive for clients. An Oriental area rug adds to the dignified feeling, as does the handsome wood tab desk and chairs. With an office such as this, your husband's clients will not only be impressed by the decorating, but also by his sense of taste and imagination -- but remember, keep the files in the basement or closet.






Editor’s Note: Margot Gunther, ASID, is a designer who has worked on residential interiors, country inns and restaurants; her work has been featured in top decorating magazines, as well. Additionally, she has a great deal of experience in renovation and restoration and an extensive knowledge of all designer resources.