Christine Schwalm Design

The Times had another article in their "On the Cheap" series in today's paper.  This one featured a man in his late 20's moving into his first apartment with no roommates.  The design services were free but the client had about $8000 to spend on furnishings and minor construction.  This sounds like a lot, but you'd be surprised how fast that money can go.

The designers made some really good choices, investing in a large colorful area rug, a few mid century pieces from an antique store and a great piece of custom art (not bad for $350).  I would have liked to see a little less Ikea for the staple furnishings (sofa, dining room) but it is inexpensive and immediate, which were also important.  You can read all about the makeover here--including a story about the vase on the end table that's more colorful than the vase itself.