Where do you go to collect your thoughts? Do you have a place where you can go to escape and to breathe easy? For most women, the daily chaos of life breeds stress. It is natural for us to want to be all things to all people. Yet, this can have us running on empty. Creating a personal oasis might be just what we need to bring balance to life and boost our self-esteem.

PlumbTalk Women had the pleasure of interviewing Nina Williams, a skilled decorator who specializes in converting ordinary spaces into extraordinary oases.

In her own words Nina Williams says, an oasis is “where you go to get away.”

She helps her clients create places of refuge for the body, mind, and soul. This valuable space can offer a woman like you the chance to regularly experience the type of comfort and security that can rebuild and replenish the spirit.

Why Do You Need An Oasis?

Nina Williams believes that all women need a place that is their very own. A personal oasis should be your dream room that is a decorative reflection of who you are on the inside. It ought to be a place that makes you happy and helps wash away the stress of life.

Fellow decorator Gail Blanke says, “Stress-free living is not about decorating or spending money to live up to someone else’s idea of Zen design. It’s about revealing the good stuff and being free of anything that weighs you down.”

Bringing Your Perfect Room to Life

According to Nina Williams, the first step in creating the perfect oasis is to consider stress-reducing activities that make you happy and confident. In other words, think about the function or purpose of your oasis.

“What [do you] need to get from the space?” Do you like to read, exercise, or paint? Pick an activity that you enjoy and consider how the décor of a room could enhance your enjoyment.

Getting Down to the Details

After identifying the function of your oasis, Nina Williams believes there are four indispensable elements that must be considered in creating your perfect space.

  1. Furniture

    “What furniture pieces best serve my oasis’ function?” Do you want to bring nature inside? Will your central piece be a big comfy couch? Perhaps you will need a desk for supplies, shelves for books, or cabinets for storage.

  2. Color

    The color of your oasis ought to motivate, comfort, relax, and rejuvenate you. Consider experimenting with colors that set the mood you are seeking. Marthastewart.com offers “232 Room Colors,” which can help you to find the paint blend that evokes the emotional sensation you desire.

  3. Lighting

    Do you want a bright space with lots of sunlight? Do you prefer a cozy area lit by lamps? Choose lighting that helps you relax and supports the function of your oasis.

  4. Sound

    Remember, this perfect room is your place to rejuvenate. Make sure you choose a location that limits distractions and disruptions. To avoid background noises consider positioning your oasis away from heavy traffic areas. If that is not possible, consider playing music of your choice in your space to filter out unwanted sound.

The Inspiration Behind Your Design

Nina suggests thinking outside-of-the-box. Consider using a combination of these textures in the materials you choose:

  • Soft
  • Shaggy
  • Silver
  • Shiny
  • Reflective
  • Woven

Make the room an interesting place that reflects your personality.

Finding pieces that fit the ambiance you are trying to achieve can be tricky. Take the time to find the perfect pieces. Nina suggests shopping at:

  • Flea markets
  • Second-hand stores
  • Antique shows
  • Craigslist
  • Garage Sales

Not only will you save money, you may find a one-of-a- kind piece that makes your room special and enjoyable.

Rediscovering Balance

PlumbTalk Women knows that balance is an essential element for stress-free living. Creating a personalized space where you can allow yourself to relax and recharge will not only work at eliminating stress, it will boost your self-esteem giving you the ability to confidently tackle all that life brings.

For more information or to request a consultation, contact Nina Williams at:

[email protected]

References:

10 Steps to a Stress-Free (2010). Retrieved from http://www.wholeliving.com/136439/10-steps-stress-free-home

Martha Stewart. 232 Rooms by Color. Retrieved from http://www.marthastewart.com/276997/decoratin-color?tab=index

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