At Home With A Designer An Interview with Mary Baltz

Mary Baltz, contributing editor to Victoria Magazine believes in white. Her home is a study in whites, a place where small additions of color make for instant, welcome changes.

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This is a look that is easy to live with, and fun to accomplish. Mary has honed her style over the years, adding, editing, and always layering in collections and accessories on top of a neutral canvas of pale white.

In the book, Designers In Residence, Mary discusses seasonal decorating, her love of paint, linens, and shopping in flea markets.

Here is more of Mary's advice about decorating...

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Q. What are some of the common decorating mistakes made by homeowners? What's your advice on how to avoid or correct those mistakes?

Mary Baltz: "Many people make decorating decisions too quickly without exploring all of the possibilities. It is always better to take your time, and int the end you'll always have better results."

Q. What would be your recommendation for "what to do first" in a decorating project?

Mary Baltz: "Create your own canvas. Choose paint colors and a theme first, then make decisions on your furniture and larger pieces."

Q. What tips do you have on themes, fabric and color choices, window treatments, furniture, etc. when decorating a long lasting room for a young child?

Mary Baltz: "I think all too often people decorate children's rooms in all primary colors. The truth is, my little girl started in an all white nursery. She is now 8 years old, and over the years we've made changes. Some of her own drawings are now framed as artwork on the walls. We have mixed patterns and textures, rose prints and checks -- all in pale pinks and blues.

"In the textile market there are so many beautiful wallpapers and fabrics, so you don't always need a 'child's pattern' to identify the space. Children grow so fast and a few good color and style choices in the beginning can make all the difference. Later, painting furniutre can make nice changes."

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