What Does Your Art Mean? The Power of the Spiral

Art possesses a transformative power. Consider embracing symbols like the spiral, which energetically align with you. When curating art for your space, reflect on its significance. Why is it your choice? Beyond its hues, forms, and designs, does it resonate with a memory, emotion, journey, or a cherished individual? Dive deeper than aesthetics; connect with its essence and the personal narrative it brings into your space.

As an artist who creates the art for your space, the meaning behind what I create is important to me. I usually create abstract art that is not about a specific person, place or event but is more about the colors, shapes and feeling that it evokes. Some shapes are more meaningful than others and tend to draw you into creating more and more with the same shape. I find that much of my work revolves around spirals.

Spirals are prevalent in nature, in a beautiful sea shell, the unfolding of a new fern, the shape of a pine cones or the petals of a flower.

Spriral Shell Photo by Roan Lavery on Unsplash.

Plant photo by Thais-Ribeiro on Unsplash

Spirals are meaningful cultural and religious symbols. They often symbolize connection to God and universal energy, and can represent harmony, beginnings, focus, a journey, direction, and progress. The spiral progression is symbolic of the route to a higher level of consciousness.

In some Native American cultures, the spiral is a sacred symbol of birth, rebirth and personal power, a metaphor for personal vision and enlightenment. They honor the grouse as a symbol of the sacred spiral, because the grouse does a spiral dance.

It can represent growth and evolution, eternity and continuity and is one of the most common symbols found among petroglyphs created by ancient or primitive peoples.

The whirling dervishes of some Sufi orders are masters of the spiral dance or whirling which they use to transcend to higher states of awareness and connect to God.

Spirals are important in great design, from the Mona Lisa to the Pyramids. The spiral is an example of the Golden Ratio which is a mathematical ratio. When used in a design, it fosters organic and natural-looking compositions that are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The ratio is even used to create music masterpieces.

Spiral Staircase- Photo by Dan Freeman on Unsplash

Vatican Buildings. Photo by Christina Gottardi on Unsplash

Even the Milky Way, the galaxy that includes Earth and our solar system – is an example of a spiral galaxy. We live in one big, beautiful spiral.

That’s one powerful shape.

The Milky Way- A Spiral Galaxy. Photo by NASA

In summary, the spiral is a symbol that has been used in art across cultures and epochs. Its meaning can vary based on context, culture, and the artist’s intention.

Life Cycle & Growth: Spirals often represent life cycles, growth, and evolution. They can symbolize the journey of life from birth to death or the natural progression and transformation of life.
Connection to the Universe: In many ancient cultures, spirals symbolize the cosmos or a spiritual journey. They can represent the vastness of the universe or the interconnectedness of all life.
Eternal Life: Due to its never-ending pattern, the spiral can symbolize eternity and immortality.
Change & Development: Spirals can represent the idea of expansion, change, and development. It can be about personal growth or the evolution of a concept or idea.
Feminine Energy: In certain contexts, the spiral is symbolic of the womb and fertility, representing feminine energy and birth.
Natural Phenomena: The spiral is often seen in nature, such as in the patterns of shells, galaxies, or the way water whirls. As such, artists might use it to represent nature, mathematics, or the golden ratio.
Journey & Progression: Spirals can also symbolize a journey, be it a spiritual, personal, or physical one. It can denote progression, taking a path, and continuously moving forward.
Mysticism & Rituals: Spirals have been used in various rituals and religious symbols. They can indicate deeper knowledge, mysticism, or a connection to the divine.

In art, the meaning of the spiral can be personal to the artist and the energy they have infused into it, or the viewer.

When viewing spiral art, consider the context in which it was created to fully understand its intended significance.

Art with Power

“The Spiral” Energy Art

As an energy artist creating spirals, my intention is that the spiral is a symbol of personal transformation for you. Each piece inspires and uplifts you to be in alignment with who you truly are.

Everything is Energy. The spiral represents the energy of evolution, life, consciousness, and creation. Since ancient times it has been a symbol of growth and transformation. The spiral in your space is a reminder and invitation to shed your old skin and become something new.

This “Spiral”series is dedicated to Jim Fortin, who inspires us to transform and be our best selves. See my Saturday Night Live Art Show on this series.

Spiral living room — “Spiral” Fractal Art and Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

“Infinity” Spiral Energy Art

My “Infinity” collection is a reminder that everything is energy including every object in your home, and the people, animals, plants, furniture, etc. Is the energy harmonious like an orchestra playing together or chaotic like an orchestra tuning up? A home that feels great has harmonious energy. Your art plays a big part in that. How is your energy evolving and what is it creating?

See my Saturday Night Live Art Show highlighting my “Infinity” series.

Infinity living room — “Infinity” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

“Yin/Yang” Spiral Energy Art

This series inspires balance. Yin is female energy, and Yang is male energy. We all have, and need both, to get things done. Are you an over-doer of all the things? Try focusing less on masculine doing and more on feminine receiving. Yin receives ideas and inspiration. Yang puts the ideas into action. Yin receives the rewards of your actions. Yang takes the action and celebrates. Balance is the key to happiness. As above, so below. As within, so without. See my Yin/Yang collection here. See my Saturday Night Live Art Show on this series below.

Saturday Night Live Art Shows- "Yin and Yang" Aligned Energy Art — “Yin and Yang” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

“Phoenix Rising” Spiral Energy Art

Step into the fire, burn away all your hurts and fears that define who you and rise from the ashes of all that does not serve you. This is part of my Fire Element collection. In Chinese healing arts, the fire element represents transformation, divinity, power, and passion. It can also represent destruction. The fire phase is a state of peak power and manifesting. Here you are in the maximum state of doing and activity. See my “Phoenix Rising” collection of spiral art here. See my Saturday Night Live Art Show on this collection.

“Phoenix Rising” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

“Deep Purple” Spiral Energy Art

Deep purple embodies various energetic connotations:

Spirituality: Represents divine connection and higher consciousness.
Transformation: Signifies profound change and perspective shift.
Mysticism: Linked with magic and deeper mysteries.
Royalty: Historically associated with nobility and wealth.
Intuition: Resonates with inner wisdom and insight.
Protection: Seen as a shield against negative energies in spiritual practices.
Creativity: Encourages artistry and imagination.
Deep Emotion: Symbolizes introspective feelings and thoughts.

In essence, deep purple connects the material and spiritual, embodying upliftment, transformation, and contemplation.

How to Make Magic Happen in Your Home with Lighting by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design — Deep Purple Fractal Art and Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

“Bioluminesence” Spiral Energy Art

In essence, bioluminescence reflects nature’s magic, adaptability, and the dance between fleeting beauty and profound depth. It is a reminder to appreciate or embody the following:

Mystical Wonder: Nature’s magical display.
Inner Radiance: Shining from within amidst external darkness.
Adaptation: Nature’s clever survival tool.
Nature’s Rhythm: Representing balance and harmony.
Transient Beauty: Fleeting yet captivating.
Deep Exploration: Delving into mysteries, whether within or in the universe.

Time to Up Your Game at your Vacation Rental. Bed and Breakfast Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. — Bioluminescense Fractal Art and Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

To see more of my spiral designs check out my Spiral Collection on Pixels.com and Artist Studio at Society 6.

Learn more about the power of art in this video.

Custom Spiral Designs

If you are interested in a spiral design to fit your color scheme and personal power journey, let me know and I will create something for you. They can be created on a wide variety of art and home decor products. See my Artist Studio at Society 6 to see more.

Create Your Own Spiral Magic

My Aligned Design consultation ties it all together, including custom energy art designed for you and what you need for your own alignment.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

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What is Your Global Design Style? Take the Quiz
$What does your art mean? Why not pick a powerful symbol like the spiral. Learn its meaning and see my spiral fractal art designs.$
$What does your art mean? Why not pick a powerful symbol like the spiral. Learn its meaning and see my spiral fractal art designs.$
$What does your art mean? Why not pick a powerful symbol like the spiral. Learn its meaning and see my spiral fractal art designs.$
$What does your art mean? Why not pick a powerful symbol like the spiral. Learn its meaning and see my spiral fractal art designs.$

Increase your Vacation Rental Income and Bookings with Home Staging

Did you know that you can increase your vacation rental income and bookings with home staging?

Home staging highlights the positive and downplays the negative aspects of homes for sale. A professional stager creates a look and atmosphere that buyers make an emotional connection with and they want to buy through decorating and market research. It’s the emotional connection that cinches the deal. Sellers then market their properties to attract buyers online with great photos of their beautifully staged home.

Increase your Vacation Rental Income and Bookings with Home Staging

The same principles work with vacation rental properties such as Bed and Breakfasts, and other rental units.

“Whether you have investments in multiple apartment buildings, a few vacation properties or a single apartment in your basement, you can’t afford to have vacancies” says internationally recognized home stager Debra Gould, the Staging Diva.

“As a landlord, have you considered hiring a professional home stager to enhance the appeal of your rental units? If you have a property to rent, you should make a call to an expert home stager as soon as a tenant vacates the premises” says Gould in her article “Home Staging Boosts Demand for Rental Properties”.

After deciding who your ideal customer is, Home Staging can update the look of your rental to reflect your brand, appeal to your ideal customer and justify the price you want to charge.

Increase your Vacation Rental Income and Bookings with Home Staging

Staging helps you get great photos for your online advertising that attract your ideal guests, increase your rental price and get more bookings.

Staging works for Bed and Breakfasts, vacation rentals and other rental properties. For more information on Bed and Breakfasts, check out my article, “Attract Your Ideal Customer and Increase Your Bed and Breakfast Income”.

I staged this property that had been a rental unit for the owner to sell. After listing it, they realized they could make more money by keeping it as a rental and used the staging and great photos to increase their income and bookings instead. After listing it on Airbnb and other sites, it created a buzz and generated more interest than other neighboring properties in the same area, increasing their rental price, income and bookings from what it had previously brought in as a rental unit before staging.

Increase Your Vacation Rental Income And Bookings Today

I can help you make it happen. Start with a Vacation Rental consultation.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

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Increase your Vacation Rental Income and Bookings with Home Staging

Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

Market research is the first thing you should do before developing a plan for staging your house if you want to make top dollar on your home sale. I know, market research sounds boring. Why should you care?

Here’s why:

Understanding the Target Audience: Market research will help you understand who the potential buyers are in your area. Knowing your audience means you can stage your home in a way that appeals directly to their preferences and needs.
Pricing Insights: Through research, you can ascertain the average selling prices for homes in your area, ensuring you don’t undervalue or overprice your property.
Identify Trends: Market research can reveal current home design trends that buyers are gravitating towards. By staging your home in line with these trends, you increase its appeal.
Stay Competitive: By understanding what other sellers are offering, you can ensure your home has a unique selling proposition that differentiates it from other properties on the market.
Minimize Time on Market: Homes that are staged in line with buyer preferences tend to sell faster, reducing the amount of time your property stays on the market.
Optimal Use of Resources: Instead of randomly buying or renting furniture and decor for staging, market research helps you invest wisely in enhancements that are most likely to yield a return on investment.
Anticipate Buyer Concerns: Research might reveal common concerns or objections from homebuyers in your region, allowing you to address these proactively through your staging and marketing efforts.
Increase Return on Investment: Homes that are staged effectively, considering the preferences of the target market, often fetch higher offers from potential buyers. Market research can show you what type of finishes and amenities similar houses have.
Professional Perception: Demonstrating that you’ve conducted thorough market research and staged your home accordingly can instill confidence in potential buyers, positioning you as a thoughtful and professional seller.
Tailored Marketing Strategies: Once you’ve gathered insights from your research, you can tailor your marketing strategies to highlight the features that matter most to potential buyers in your area.

In essence, market research ensures that the effort and resources you put into staging your home align with what potential buyers are looking for, thereby enhancing the likelihood of a quick and profitable sale.

Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

What is Your Price Range

Look at the range of prices. If you want to be on the top end of the range, your home needs to look as good and better than the other homes in that part of the range to stand out. That is where home staging can really help you outshine the competition.

Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

Who is Your Target Market

To pinpoint your target market, consider the nearby businesses and educational institutions. Local businesses might appeal to employees or those drawn to their services, while proximity to schools can attract families with young children. Nearby medical facilities could be a magnet for healthcare professionals or even for those prioritizing health and convenience, like the elderly. Consider: Is your home perfect for retirees looking to downsize? Or is it more suited for first-time homeowners or millennials? The aesthetic preferences of these groups will differ significantly. Remember, the décor and color palette that resonates with one demographic might not strike a chord with another, influencing your staging decisions accordingly.

Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

What Investments will give you a Good Return

Another reason to do market research is to look at what type of amenities similar homes have such as countertops and flooring. So, for example, if you are going to be updating your countertops before selling, and everyone in the area has granite countertops, it probably won’t be a good idea to update with Formica, or to invest in granite if everyone else has Formica. In the first case your home will not look as nice as the competition, and in the second, your house will look nicer but will not likely get back the return on the investment you made with your sale price.

Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

How to do Market Research

Hire a Professional Stager: Consider investing in a professional home stager right from the start. They typically conduct their own market research and possess a keen understanding of what appeals to buyers in your specific locale.
Understand the Demographics: Analyze the typical buyer profile for your area, focusing on age, family size, income levels, and professions to determine whom you’re staging for.
Analyze Local Real Estate Listings: Browse local real estate platforms to gauge how similar homes are staged. Look for dominant styles, colors, and arrangements.
Visit Open Houses: Gain firsthand insights by attending local open houses. Observe successful layout and decoration strategies.
Seek Feedback: Engage with friends, neighbors, or colleagues who’ve recently purchased homes. Their preferences can provide staging direction.
Consult Real Estate Agents: Tap into the expertise of real estate professionals to gain insights on market trends and effective staging methods.
Survey Potential Buyers: Conducting informal surveys or discussions can help delve deeper into the needs and desires of potential buyers.
Check Online Forums and Groups: Online platforms like Reddit or local Facebook groups offer genuine insights from local homebuyers.
Consider Local Amenities: Research nearby institutions like schools or hospitals, and consider the types of families or individuals they might attract.
Study Interior Design Trends: Keep abreast of current design trends to ensure your staging feels modern and inviting.
Analyze Previous Feedback: Reflect on any feedback if your home has been previously evaluated or listed. Such insights can guide refinements in staging.

Executing market research before staging ensures your home resonates with a broad spectrum of potential buyers, increasing the likelihood of a swift and profitable sale.

Ready to Sell?

A professional home stager will do market research on your home before staging, and consult with your Realtor if you have one on the expected target market. They are experts at decorating to make an emotional connection with your target buyers. Get started with a home staging consultation today.

Online Home Staging Consultation by NOrthern Lights Home Staging and Design — Home Staging Consultation Online. Call for a custom quote for an in person consultation.

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Why Work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

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Interested in become a home stager? Try the Staging Diva Home Staging Training. This is what I did and highly recommend it!

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Market Research- The Key to Successful Home Staging

Stay Warm This Winter and Slash Bills with These Home Efficiency Upgrades

Do you ever feel like it’s impossible to stay warm in the winter without spending a fortune on energy bills? If this sounds familiar, you may be surprised by how easy it can be to heat your home more efficiently. Smart home tech is one of our favorite solutions, but it’s not the only option. From high-tech devices to small changes in everyday habits, there are countless ways to boost your home’s efficiency — and make electric bills more manageable this winter.

Don’t Fight Mother Nature!

When winter hits, our natural inclination is to fight the cold by cranking up the heat indoors. This can be an uphill battle, but accepting the season for what it is — and even working with Mother Nature — can increase your home’s efficiency dramatically. One example is how the sun provides warmth year-round, even when the air temperature is cold. For this reason, an easy way to reduce heating costs is to open window coverings on sunny days, especially on any south-facing windows, because the natural warmth from the sun means less work for your heating system. Along the same lines, most people could change other small habits, such as closing the doors to any seldom-used rooms and keeping the vents in those rooms closed.

The bottom line is that your furnace has to work hard to keep your home nice and toasty, but you can give your heating system a break by changing your habits and by making efficient upgrades. Another easy change is to keep your thermostat set a little lower. Any programmable thermostat will work, but with a smart thermostat, you have even more control to adjust it as needed. For example, if your whole family is out of the house most of the day, keep it set lower during those hours, and you can easily raise the temperature when needed.

Insulate Everything

Besides heating the air inside efficiently, it’s important to keep cold air out. The best way to do this is to ensure your home is insulated properly. If you’re up for a DIY project, Family Handyman has an excellent guide for how to install insulation yourself. As they explain, installing insulation correctly is a major factor in how effective it is.

Along with boosting the insulation in your attic, don’t forget about insulating other spots that are easy to overlook. For example, Money Talks News recommends insulating attic doors along with your basement and other sneaky spots, such as electrical outlets and heating ducts. In addition to adding insulation, another essential step for keeping cold air out is to seal off leaks. According to the blog Direct Energy, an easy way to identify air leaks is to go room by room and either use your hand to feel for air or use a candle to see where the flame flickers. Doing this works best on a windy day, and you’ll want to turn your heating system off. Then, you can add caulk, foam, or weather stripping wherever it’s needed.

Target Other Energy Hogs

Heating may be the main culprit that drives up winter utility bills, but it probably isn’t the only source of increased energy use. When the sun sets earlier, it’s normal to compensate by using more indoor lighting. Not to mention, it’s awfully tempting to warm up in the winter by taking a hot bath or an extra long shower. The good news is that it’s easy to make these habits less costly. For example, switching to LED bulbs makes lighting more efficient. Getting a new tankless water heater will make those warm showers more eco-friendly. Alternatively, you can simply set your old water heater to a lower temperature.

The reality is that energy consumption is part of our everyday lives. That’s a fact that’s unavoidable, but what you can avoid is wasted energy. Whether you make small changes or big home improvements, each of these swaps will cut down on waste, all with the added benefit of cutting your utility bills at the same time.

Specially written for NorthernLightsStaging.com

By: Dennis Kane of the Winterize Guys at winterizeguys.com

Want to learn more about Eco-Friendly Design?

Eco-friendly Interior Design is a great thing to think about in all aspects of creating a healthy, cost efficient and beautiful space. Besides being energy efficient using tips as in the article above, you can incorporate natural and eco-friendly materials in your decor. See my article, Eco-friendly Interior Design- Why it Matters, to learn more. Try my Aligned Design consultation to come up with an eco-friendly design plan for your space.

Need help creating a beautiful and eco-friendly design in your home? See my Edesign and Online Services and let me know if I can help you!.

Why Work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

Stay Warm This Winter and Slash Bills with These Home Efficiency Upgrades by Dennis Kane for Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Photo from Rawpixel

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Surprise Me

Surprise and Delight!

A great dance performance always has a surprise. It might be an unexpected twist in the storyline. It might be the unveiling of the dancer so you see her beautiful face or costume.

Maybe it is the revealing of an unexpected part of the costume that was hidden that causes the audience to gasp in surprise and delight. Surprise and Delight!!

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Surprise Me — Persian Miniature Dance. The silk butterfly wings were hidden until the moment of “transformation” in the story brought surprise and delight to the audience.

Maybe it is a surprising moment where the dancer drops to the floor and swings their hair in wild abandon.

It can be anything. The key is that it is unexpected and brings delight in the discovery.

Surprises tell the story and add drama, texture, and depth to the performance.

With any dance, there are some things that are predictable, such as repeating patterns. These parts give the audience comfort in knowing they understand what is going on. Then there are the surprises, that keep things interesting, exciting and make a memorable performance.

Interior Design Lessons from Dance

You might be wondering how all this ties back to Interior Design. Well, the concept of surprises resonates much like the unexpected twists in a dance or within the confines of a room.

Over the years, I’ve come to discern the intricate tapestry that interconnects various art forms. The very principles underpinning the enchantment of Interior Design echo throughout many art forms. The crux lies in the art of perceiving, listening, and embracing the subtle nuances that surround us.

Repeatedly, I notice the harmonious interplay between art, the wellspring of creativity; science, the palette of colors; and energy, the unifying force. It’s this alignment that threads the fabric of enchantment, weaving its spell not only in dance, but Interior Design.

How Does Surprise Relate to Interior Design?

Small surprises are the hidden gems that infuse a room with character. Often found in the accessories adorning bookshelves or gracing side tables, these are the tiny treasures that, as you navigate the space, unveil their charm, wit, or uniqueness. They offer a glimpse into the homeowner’s inner world, prompting questions about the reasoning behind their selection and placement. It’s an intimate experience, as though the homeowner has just whispered a secret to you.

But surprises need not be confined to the small scale; they can also manifest as bold, captivating elements. Whether it’s an unexpected work of art, a daring design choice, an innovative invention, or a fresh approach to presentation, these larger surprises, like choreography in a dance, contribute to weaving an unforgettable narrative. They infuse texture, depth, and intrigue into your design, evoking happiness and leaving a lasting impression that others cherish and remember.

What Surprises and Delights You?

Creating your dream space is an ode to authenticity, capturing the essence of your character, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. Dive deep into what truly mesmerizes and uplifts you, and consider integrating these elements as nuanced or pronounced accents throughout your living space. Such treasures, when discovered, invariably bring forth a smile.

Personally, I’m endlessly enchanted by artistic globes crafted from an array of materials, the radiant spectrum of stained glass, and nuances drawing from the elegance of avian life and nature’s splendor. Such details resonate deeply with those who harbor a boundless curiosity for design’s infinite potential

Create Surprise and Delight with Accents

Accents, whether nestled within a home’s interior or gracefully placed outdoors, serve as delightful ways to add surprise and delight. For me, the delicate presence of birds and wildlife artifacts lovingly gathered from nature, always strikes a chord. Equally enchanting are handcrafted creations, windows into the creator’s soul, revealing their unique essence and artistry.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Surprise Me

I put colorful birds on the book shelves and the feather paperweight in this room to create a connection to wildlife as well as plants and the outdoors. Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

Use Surprise and Delight to Sell a House

In the realm of home sales, the element of surprise and delight can be the winning touch. Staging a home is a delicate dance of ensuring broad appeal while leaving a distinctive, unforgettable mark. One surefire strategy to leave an indelible impression is to weave in elements of unexpected joy and charm.

I recall staging a home recently, working solely with the owner’s possessions. The residence already echoed a touch of whimsy, thanks to artful embellishments on the shutters by previous inhabitants. Among the available items, nothing immediately beckoned as a source of delight. However, drawing inspiration from the ambiance, I envisioned a rock cairn by the front entrance — a subtle, enchanting detail awaiting potential buyers’ discovery. This tiny gesture can intrigue and create a lasting connection with visitors, illustrating the power of thoughtful, delightful details

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Surprise Me

I created some small cairns indoors as decor on the end tables in the living room.

People noticed and commented. I am sure they never had seen something like this before and it made the home more memorable.

Home Staging by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

In another staging project, I carried my love of small decorative birds into a staging project where I created surprise and delight in a bathroom.

Learn More

Learn more in some of my other articles in this series:

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing and Learning to Tell a Great Story.

I Learned To Solve All My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Bring on the Bling.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- There Can Only Be One Star.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Be Brave.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with Shapes.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing- Create Drama with a Focal Point.

I Learned to Solve all My Interior Design Problems by Dancing.

Are You Ready to Create Surprise and Delight in Your Home?

Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

Why Work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

Let’s Solve Your Paint Color Dilemma

Considering a fresh coat of paint for your home’s exterior? It’s amazing how a new shade can give both your home and your spirits a lift. However, this exciting change can sometimes lead to the all-too-common paint color dilemma.

It’s something every homeowner encounters. Whether you’re updating the entire exterior, adding a pop to a single room, or just revamping a door, choosing the right shade is crucial. The stakes? Picking a color that doesn’t match your vision, leaving you wondering if the neighbors are silently judging. But fear not, for every paint predicament, there’s a perfect solution waiting to be discovered!

Facing the dreaded paint color dilemma! No worries, there is a solution!

Navigating the maze of paint colors can often feel like an unsolvable puzzle. Most people often resort to:

Choosing their favorite shade and crossing their fingers.
Seeking the collective wisdom of friends and family.
Posting on design forums like Houzz, only to get overwhelmed with diverse suggestions.
Going down the rabbit hole of color blogs and becoming perplexed by the term “undertones”.
Painting multiple sample colors on their wall and feeling like they’re in a never-ending loop of indecision.
Consulting a certified color strategist.

Among these, the last option is truly the game-changer. Here’s why:

Your favorite color might not necessarily match your home’s permanent fixtures. Whether it’s your exterior finishes or your interior countertops and flooring, you need to ensure harmony.
Everyone has an opinion, but remember, you’re the one living in your space. What’s aesthetically pleasing to others might not resonate with you.
Online experts, though well-intentioned, aren’t privy to the specific lighting conditions and nuances of your home. Computer screens rarely capture true colors!
The term “undertones” often muddies the waters. Colors in different lighting conditions can be deceiving. It’s essential not to get bogged down by the jargon.
Using multiple swatches is a good start. But remember, colors can influence each other, and it’s essential to view each shade in isolation.
A certified color strategist is your best ally. They blend the art and science of color, offering a trained eye and understanding the physics of color. This ensures your chosen shade complements the specific fixtures and lighting conditions of your home.

In essence, while color can be subjective, its impact on a space is tangible. With tools like a colorimeter, experts can objectively measure colors, aligning them perfectly with your home’s needs. So, next time you’re caught in the color conundrum, remember, there’s a science to it, and the right expert can make your colorful dreams a reality!

So what is this magical device? A Color Muse! While this device can be used by anyone to find paint colors to match an existing color, the real power comes from understanding what the color data means and how to use it.

Diving into a color dilemma is akin to playing detective. Let’s unravel one such case I encountered. Upon arriving at the residence, what greeted me was a splash of color swatches on the walls and the door. A classic sign of the homeowner’s quest and confusion in pinpointing that elusive perfect shade. The scene screamed ‘color dilemma’ loud and clear.

At the outset, the intention was evident: the homeowner wanted a fresh look but was overwhelmed by the options. They had tried multiple colors, hoping one would stand out and feel “right”. But instead, what they had was a mosaic of possibilities, with no clear winner.

Let me walk you through the art and science of solving this color dilemma. My clients had a vision of their ideal color palette: a hue that struck a balance between gray, green, and brown. They also wanted to preserve the natural wood and metal trim while introducing a vibrant front door. A classic scenario where husband and wife couldn’t quite agree on the perfect color.

The wood siding and metal trim had now transformed into fixed finishes, dictating the color harmony for the entire exterior. The roof color remained hidden from sight, so it didn’t play a role in the selection. Additionally, there was almost black metal trim on the deck railings and around the front door, which was not up for a paint makeover and thus became another fixed finish. To add to the equation, a stark white garage door stood prominently, making it the most eye-catching feature due to its lighter shade than the rest of the elements.

Applying the art of color, I decided to make the garage door recede by painting it a dark color. The trim color on the railings, determined by measurement, also seemed ideal for the window trim and garage to maintain harmony amidst the three other colors designated for the walls, wood, and metal vertical trim. This color turned out to be Sherwin Williams Caviar, aligning perfectly with the measured hue, chroma, and values of the wood and metal vertical wall.

Next, it was time to identify a wall color that would complement these fixed finishes in terms of hue, chroma, or lightness. Several options on the color wheel were considered, such as an analogous scheme (colors close to each other on the wheel), a complimentary scheme (opposite colors), or a triadic scheme (colors evenly spaced on the wheel). By narrowing down the choices, my clients ultimately selected Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray with a hint of “green” that aligned with their preferences.

The final piece of the puzzle was the front door. To create a harmonious connection with the landscaping, a color inspired by the vibrant green bushes in the front was proposed. Measuring a leaf with my trusty colorimeter led us to the perfect shade: Sherwin Williams Hep Green.

And voilà! The color dilemma was elegantly resolved, resulting in a stunning transformation.

Did they like the end result? Here is what they said.

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Ten Ways To Not Screw Up Picking Your Paint Colors
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Are you Living Your Dharma?

My journey with dharma began at the onset of the pandemic and has continued to unfold in the most fascinating ways. As the world slowed down, I chose transformation and growth, immersing myself in personal development and business courses while recharging my spirit with daily online dance sessions. It became a path of deep enrichment and well-being.

Through my courses, the idea of dharma kept surfacing — a word I hadn’t even known before. But there it was, appearing again and again, almost as if calling out to me: “Hey, you! I’m your dharma… are you paying attention?”

Well OK, now I am. Who are you and what do you want?

“I am your purpose in life. Your true calling – what you were put here to do”. OK, well, you are a little fuzzy and nebulous. Could you make yourself a little clearer? “Yeah, but you have to do some work to help make that happen.” OK, I have time. Let’s get to it.

Are you Living Your Dharma?

At the time, I enrolled in Jim Fortin’s Transformational Coaching Program, hoping to elevate my design business. The heart of the program centers on a powerful truth: “Be more to do more and have more” — a refreshing shift from the conventional “have, do, be” mindset.

What I didn’t expect was how much personal transformation would lead the way. Like many others focused on business growth, I soon realized that inner change was the real catalyst for outward success.

Since beginning this journey, I’ve revamped my diet, lost 10 pounds, quit smoking, found a deeper sense of peace, and embraced the philosophy of doing less — but doing it better — all while cultivating a greater sense of gratitude for the life I already have.

Investing in this program during the uncertain times of the pandemic made it even more profound, reminding me that the journey into ourselves is just as important as any destination we hope to reach.

Inspired by the principles of Hal Elrod’s The Miracle Morning, I crafted a daily practice rooted in silence, visualization, exercise, reading, and writing — a ritual that nourishes both mind and spirit.

As I journeyed through the book, a powerful quote from Jim Rohn stood out to me: “Your level of success will rarely exceed your level of personal development, because success is something you attract by the person you become.”

It was a moment of clarity. I realized why so many, myself included, come seeking business growth but find personal transformation leading the way.

While my path has woven together both personal and professional evolution, it’s the inner growth — the quiet, steady unfolding — that I treasure most.

Are you Living Your Dharma?

One theme that kept surfacing in the program — and truly captivated me — was the idea that wealth doesn’t come solely from hard work, but from the universe itself. At first, I found this concept puzzling. How could that be?

The deeper message revealed itself: when you are fully engaged in your passion — the work you would do even without a paycheck — and it creates value for others, prosperity naturally follows.

One day, a business coach shared a quote from the legendary dancer Martha Graham. As a dancer myself, I thought, Now you’re speaking my love language. I’m listening.

Are you Living Your Dharma?

And now it makes more sense. We are all unique in all of time and space. We all have our individual voices. If we can just get out of our own way and out from under all the personal stuff that holds us back, by Being better, we can open the channel and let it come through. That is our dharma. When it happens, the money will come.

A fellow Interior Designer, Leslie Carothers said on Facebook once, NO ONE is YOU. NO ONE has your heart, your soul, your exact combination of the *magic* that makes working with you such a special experience.

Are you Living Your Dharma?

In truth, we don’t need to define our dharma. We simply need to stay open — receptive to its flow — and allow it to reveal itself through us, naturally and effortlessly.

For a long time, I believed my dharma was to bring joy and growth into people’s lives by creating beauty — through vibrant Interior Design, the rhythm of dance, the shimmer of handmade jewelry or stained glass, and the energy woven into my art.

My art celebrates vivid color and rich texture, honors the environment, nurtures our connection to nature, and embraces the diverse beauty of global design.

But as I looked deeper, I realized that these were simply the vessels. My true dharma is something more: to channel messages of universal energy that guide people back to their authentic selves — helping them awaken to their full potential.

When you feel drawn to my energy art or seek my design expertise, you’re not just experiencing beauty — you’re connecting with these deeper messages. You’re helping me live my dharma. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Now, I invite you to reflect: Are you living in alignment with your dharma? If not, perhaps I can support you on your journey — through the transformative power of Aligned Design.

My Dharma In Action

Here are some examples of some of my energy art and Interior Designs that I am inspired to create.

https://youtu.be/Ha0e7-NUpE4?si=TCVwcZKJBms3Th7f

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Interior Design Is NOT About Looking Good

It is about looking great, feeling great and supporting you to BE great.

The common perception of Interior Design is that it’s purely about enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home. Indeed, most Interior Designers will transform your house into a stunning space that is not only visually pleasing but also tailored to suit your lifestyle, ensuring that you feel content and proud when others experience it.

But great Interior Design is about so much more than looks, form, and function. It is about looking great, feeling great, and supporting you to be great.

When your space is better, you are better.
When you are better, the world is better.

Sound Familiar?

Homeowners, are you grappling with frustration over your home’s look and feel, striving to achieve harmony, and anxious about costly missteps? Is your space the tranquil haven you yearn for at the end of the day?

Business Owners, are you attracting the clients you desire, and is your revenue a reflection of the value you provide?

Home Sellers, are you currently selling your home, worried it might linger on the market, necessitating repeated price reductions and endless viewings instead of a swift, profitable sale?

The solution to all these challenges lies in the power of great design.

Aligned Design

My philosophy of great Interior Design, which I call Aligned Design, considers three key factors; art, science and energy. The intersection of the three is where the magic happens.

“Art” encapsulates the essence of “Interior Design”. It seamlessly blends furniture, decor, lighting, finishes, color, and architecture to craft spaces that aren’t just visually appealing but also resonate with our way of living.

“Science” elevates this art. It employs the intricacies of color science to accentuate your design’s impact. Beyond aesthetics, colors influence our emotions and ambience. Through color science, we transition your space from appealing to breathtaking. Furthermore, science nudges us towards sustainable and eco-friendly choices, ensuring both personal wellness and planetary care.

“Energy” is the soulful connection weaving through each design element. It’s about introspection – connecting with oneself, one’s history, ambitions, and molding a space that nurtures growth and aspirations. It also involves harmonizing with the inherent energy of your surroundings (akin to Feng Shui) and cherishing nature’s touch (biophilia). This deep-rooted connection, further amplified by tailored energy art, offers an ineffable comfort and tranquility in the design.

Why You Need Art, Science and Energy Together

When you prioritize only two of the three crucial elements, you risk compromising the holistic harmony of your space. Think of it as enjoying a meal but missing a key ingredient; it’s satisfying but not quite complete.

If you focus on “Art” and “Science” (including color dynamics), your space might look stunning and function efficiently, but it might lack the soulful, personal touch and deeper connection that “Energy” can infuse. Overlooking the “energy” aspect could affect your sleep, productivity, and connection to nature. By integrating biophilic elements, you not only connect deeper with nature but also align with your true self, fostering improved well-being, relationships, and positive global impact.
Emphasizing “Art” and “Energy” can create a visually pleasing environment that resonates personally, but without the “Science” of functional design and the proper use of color, it may fall short in practicality and sustainability. Without the scientific understanding of color, a design might miss its full potential. Color, when applied with expertise, elevates a space from appealing to mesmerizing.
Merging “Science” (with its color considerations) and “Energy” can lead to a functional and emotionally connected space, yet it could miss the aesthetic flair and sophistication that “Art” offers. An eco-friendly home with vibrant colors contributes to well-being, but aesthetics and functionality are crucial too. An inspiring and beautiful environment uplifts your mood daily, while a space tailored to your lifestyle enhances comfort and enjoyment.

Simply put, sidelining one component can throw off the balance of your environment. For a truly harmonious and balanced living space, it’s essential to weave together the beauty of “Art”, the practicality and color science of “Science”, and the personal resonance of “Energy”.

Look Great, Feel Great, Be Great

My Aligned Design system brings it all together to work its magic. Whether it’s for your personal space, business, or preparing to sell, Aligned Design delivers exceptional results.

You’ll know it works when your space is a beautiful reflection of you, flows seamlessly, and inspires you with its colors. It’s healthier for you and the environment. You’ll feel better—relaxed, positive, and productive, aligned with your true self, and closer to nature. Your space motivates you to pursue your dreams and make a positive impact on the world.

Why Does it Matter?

Crafting a space that immerses you in beauty and color, and tuning the energy to promote prosperity, health, love, and authentic self-expression aligns you with the universe. This harmony enables you to live your best life, thereby making a positive contribution to the world.

When we inhabit spaces that uplift and support us, we contribute to elevating our collective consciousness.

When we all live in supporting and positive spaces, we can raise the collective consciousness.

Create Your Aligned Design

Are you prepared to elevate your home to a space that not only looks fantastic but also feels wonderful and encourages your greatest potential? Reach out today, and together, let’s turn this vision into reality.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

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Interior Design is NOT about Looking Good

I Bet You Made These Three Color Mistakes

I Bet you. Why? Because most people do. Why? Because this bad advice is all over the internet. Why? Because people continue to repeat this bad information on blogs and in forums, so most people think it is true.

Mistake #1-Testing paint colors against a white background

People often think white is a perfect neutral background to see the true characteristics of the color they are testing. Looking at your color against the old paint color can affect your perception of the new color. White seems like a great solution. Some believe that painting colors on a white background can magically make those mystical undertones appear.

The only thing that is true about the information above is that your perception of color can be influenced by adjacent colors. Whites are hues just like any other color, they just have so little chroma that it is hard to tell what hue family they came from. There are lots of shades of white, so of course a white can still influences how your color looks in comparison. In addition, there is no such thing as an “undertone” the way most people describe it. That is just a term people use when they are subjectively expressing their opinion of what hue family that white or gray came from. It is just an opinion that is often wrong and can easily be measured and determined scientifically in about 5 seconds without having to paint anything.

The biggest reason however not to test your color against a white background is that the “white” will make all colors look washed out. The intensity of the white can cause you to misread both the lightness and chroma or saturation of the color you are testing. The color will appear darker, duller or grayer, and less colorful than it is. So, it is deceiving and when you paint your room or house, it will appear much lighter, brighter and more colorful than you expected. See the example below in which I put Sherwin Williams “Moscow Midnight” on a white background.

I Bet You Made these Three Color Mistakes. Get your colors right the first time with the help of a certified color strategist. Northern Lights Home Staging and Design — Sherwin Williams’s Moscow Midnight on a white, black and gray background.

What if you put your color against a black background? It has the opposite effect, but still has the effect of distorting how your color may look in your room. Black makes your color look lighter, brighter and more colorful than it is, so when you paint your room you may be surprised with how much darker and duller the color appears than you expected. In the picture above, see how Moscow Midnight looks on a black background compared to on the white background.

So, what can you do then? Paint on a gray background! Gray is the most neutral and will have the least effect in changing how the color appears. Look at the example of Moscow Midnight on the gray background to see what I mean.

Sherwin Williams Moscow MIdnight on the walls of this bedroom from the Sherwin Williams color visualizer. — Sherwin Williams Moscow MIdnight on the walls agains and off white ceiling fro mthe Sherwin Williams Color Visualizer.

Of course, you can use this effect of the contrast between two colors in your designs if you choose as in the example above where the walls are painted Moscow Midnight and the ceiling and trim are painted a shade of white. It is just something to be aware of when you are determining your colors to start with.

Mistake #2-Testing several paint colors next to each other

People often take their white background and then paint a variety of colors next to each other in a line to compare and see what they like best. This is a totally ineffective way to compare color because each color is affecting the way you see the adjacent color.

This happens because of what is called “simultaneous contrast”. This could happen when one color is laid on top of the other such as in the examples in “Mistake #1”, where for example you put Moscow Midnight on a white background and the white makes it look darker and grayer.

Or it can happen when you paint a bunch of test samples next to each other as in the picture below. If you place color compliments next to each other (colors opposite each other on a color wheel) like red and green, they each make the other look more colorful and brighter. So, in the picture below, the green next to the red is making the red look redder, and the red is making the green look greener.

If the two colors are not complimentary like the red and orange next to each other, each color tends to influence the other by add a touch of its own compliment color to the adjacent one. For example, the compliment of red is green, so the red is adding a slightly greenish tint to the way the orange looks. The compliment of the orange is blue, so it is adding a slightly bluish tint to the way the red looks.

I realize right now you are thinking, What the Heck is she Talking About?? Yes, I know. It sounds weird but it’s true. One of those cool things about color science you never knew!!

In any case, if you are trying to evaluate a color, do not paint a wall full of samples right next to each other. You are just making things harder on yourself!! Look at each color by its little lonesome self.

Mistake #3- Painting several test colors on your wall

Why is this a mistake? Well, for one, as I mentioned above, you probably confused yourself. But also, after you have chosen your new color and you paint over your test swatches, you may have raised streaks under the new paint job that are now visible. Yes, it happens a lot. The only way to get rid of these is to sand down the raised edges before painting or continue to put more coats on until they are not visible which is time consuming and expensive.

You can avoid this mistake by purchasing removable stick on swatches of the color you want to test rather that painting on the wall. Try Swatch Rite samples . Not only are they removable, but the shape (round) is easier on the eyes in terms of evaluating colors.

Is that Cussing I Hear?

Now that I have told you the three common mistakes I bet you have made, I can hear some of you cussing me through the computer because you may have made them all at the same time last time you painted. You are not alone.

And you may be thinking, well, why should I listen to you since it was another “color expert” that told me to make these mistakes in the first place?

Bottom line, science is science. It is what it is. Most people do not know the science of color and many don’t want to know. They want to just use their “eyes” and the art of color, because it may appear to be more fun. I prefer to use both. It makes life a lot easier and quicker when trying to come up with great paint colors!

Sorry, There’s More

As a certified color strategist that uses the art and science of color, I regret to inform you that there is lots of bad color information out there on the internet besides what I have told you above. Yup, it’s true. But guess what? The science of color can cut through all the BS and help you get your colors right the first time, saving you time, money and stress! Are you ready to try a new approach? And, even though there is some science involved, it is still fun!!

Set up a color consultation today. I can work with you locally or online nationwide. To work together online, I will have you purchase a Color Muse and teach you how to use it to send me the data. Easy, collaborative and fun!

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Learn More About the Art and Science of Color

I am proud to say I am a certified color strategist! And, the only one in Alaska! As a design professional, I was truly impressed with the color training I received from Lori Sawaya of Camp Chroma. Finally, a training program that uses the scientific method of explaining how color works based on an established color system that skips all the subjective talk about undertones that leaves everyone feeling confused. Color is complex and this training explained color data so we can make informed decisions based on the science, rather than on subjective opinion or color sense.Click on the picture to find out more about the best training class on color available, the Four Pillars of Color!.

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I Bet You Made these Three Color Mistakes. Get your colors right the first time with the help of a certified color strategist. Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Why Hire a Professional Home Stager?

Why hire a professional home stager?

There are lots of simple things homeowners can do on their own to decorate their homes to sell. They can get rid of clutter, repaint, clean or put out fresh flowers. So why hire a home stager?

Home staging by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design — Home Staging by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

Many homeowners are unsure of what paint colors to choose or where to move the clutter. The process of selling a home can be completely overwhelming. They often lack real estate knowledge about their local markets and how homes in their price range should look.

A home stager has the ability to look at a home with a fresh pair of eyes. They view the home as a highly critical buyer would see it. Home staging expert Debra Gould provides five examples of how a professional home stager can benefit you:

A home stager knows what’s needed to create the right environment quickly and at the lowest cost.
A home stager knows what homes in different price ranges look like and what’s selling. They will give homeowners suggestions that their real estate agent may be afraid to offer because the agent does not want to risk losing the listing.
A home stager is not emotionally attached to any of the home’s contents, which means that they can see the home in a way that someone who has been living there for years simply cannot. Using their fresh vision, they recommend the optimal way to rearrange existing furniture, art and accessories.
A home stager can quickly choose new paint colors, flooring, tiles, countertops or any number of finishes. They have a ready source of painters, cleaners, handymen, off-site storage and a myriad of other services that may be needed on short notice.
A home stager can bring in replacement furniture, accessories and art if what is there isn’t appropriate for the home’s target market or the home is empty.

Home staging is not just for multimillion dollar homes. Even for modest homes, staging can have a dramatic effect on the selling price and the number of days spent on the market. For example, one of the homes Gould staged had previously been on the market for months with the best offer being $350,000. She spent 90 minutes with the owner rearranging the furniture, putting items in storage and telling him what needed to be cleaned. He sold the house the following week for $361,000!

How many other (legal) ways can you think of to invest $600 and get an $11,000 return on your investment the following week?

Written by internationally recognized home staging expert Debra Gould, The Staging Diva^®, www.stagingdiva.com. © Copyright Six Elements Inc. Used with permission.

Internationally recognized home staging expert Debra Gould is president of Six Elements and creator of the Staging Diva Home Staging Business Training Program with over 4,000 students worldwide. Gould is the author of four home staging guides and offers a Directory of Home Stagers to help homeowners and real estate agents locate home stagers who will decorate homes to sell quickly and for top dollar. To learn more, visit www.stagingdivadirectoryofhomestagers.com

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design provides your local expertise in Alaska home staging, Interior Design and decorating for The Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage. Call (907)-362-0065 today or email us at info@northernlightsstaging.com. Visit us at https://northernlightsstaging.com.

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