Visit WBNS-10TV’s home page to see more videos, pictures and parade updates as we near opening day.

These photos, taken at Duffy/Michael Edwards, Romanelli & Hughes and Stafford’s homes demonstrate the really amazing finishes that the homebuilders are choosing for this year’s parade.   We’ll be sharing a lot more of these details every day between now and the parade. Make sure to check back often – and plan to come in July!

When you walk in the house being built by Dani Homes, don’t be surprised if you feel a sense of calm and relaxation. Elements based on the practice of traditional Feng Shui are being integrated into the design process.

Feng Shui is based on ancient Chinese traditions and takes on many different forms. All are based on the following principle: Put the right objects in the right place to be in harmony and balance with yourself, nature and the universe.

Dani Homes designer Jenny Frederick of Spice it Up Interiors has consulted with Diana Garber of Intuitive Concepts to maximize benefits and mitigate risks with Feng Shui practices.

For more information on Feng Shui, visit the Intuitive Concepts website.

Fabrics shown above: Waverly Green Fabric, Sundial blue, Black and white, Light blue lovely lattice.

If you have children you may be familiar with the experience of playing host to a herd of 12-year-olds excited to play video games, eat snacks and hang out in your family room. Or maybe your husband enjoys having his pals over to watch the game and eat chicken wings. How about the dog that loves to sleep on the couch during the day when everybody’s gone (and then looks very innocent when you come home).

You might want to tune into this design tip recently shared by Gossing Designer Julie Himmelsbach of JCH Designs: Look for outdoor fabrics to use on inside furniture in heavy-use areas.

Outdoor spaces are becoming more like indoor living areas with the creation of outdoor “rooms” with a cozier feel.  With this trend comes an increase in the availability and selection of outdoor-friendly fabrics that can withstand excessive wear and tear.

So why not bring some of that color and durability inside?

BBQ sauce on the couch – Just wipe it off. Sprite spilled on the automan – no problem. Dog smells galore – get a wet rag and just wipe it down.

Now we wouldn’t necessarily recommend this in your formal areas, but why not give it a try in the informal spaces, espeically the ones designated for the kids (and dogs)?

We visited Garth’s on the day they were doing their bi-monthly Eclectic Auction (the next one’s scheduled for June 5, by the way.) Watch the video to learn how you can incorporate antiques into your interior design.

Garth’s Auction House at the 2009 BIA Parade of Homes from Parade of Homes on Vimeo.