Page 2 of At Home With A Designer An Interview with Ann Fox

Ann Fox's tips on budget decorating, advice on starting out, and seasonal changes...

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Q. What advice do you have for someone with a new house to decorate and perhaps a limited budget?

Ann Fox: "I'm big on decorating living spaces around sofas that are durable, neutral, and preferably with slipcovers for flexibility and ease. The patterns can be in chairs and accessories that are less expensive and can be changed later."

Q. What advice do you wish someone had given you about funishing your own home when you first started out?

Ann Fox: "I made the mistake of decorating around an Oriental rug I didn't love, and my inherited furniture, all in navy, burgundy, and hunter green. I realized my home looked like a men's library -- not me. My advice: Realize what you love, then make your home reflect your loves and interests."

Q. How would you characterize your personal style, including your preferred color scheme?

Ann Fox: "My favorite look is definitely rosy, floral cottage style. I love the New England painted furniture style mixed with comfortable slipcovered upholstery -- all accented with vintage flea market inspired accessories. I love pastels as they're so pleasing to live with -- especially whites, creams, and pastel greens with rosy accents."