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Archive for February, 2016

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Garage Makeover: Bringing a Boring Spot Back to Life

Sunday, February 21st, 2016

 

Wesley Allen Bedroom Rochester Complete Bed CB1245 is a comfy enough for your new guest room.

Wesley Allen Bedroom Rochester Complete Bed CB1245 is a comfy enough for your new guest room.

When you first bought a property, you probably felt that every section of your new home is interesting. As time passes, though, spaces like the garage or the shed become useless or start to look uninteresting. These rooms eventually become space eaters, they are simply rooms that have no purpose anymore. So would you consider a garage makeover?

New Garage Uses

If the garage in your home is no longer used as a parking space for your car, then you should consider repurposing into something else. For instance, this room can be used as a new storage unit where smaller shelves can be placed.

Since it is a new storage area, you can already put your old bike there, some old tools, and other old stuff. Furniture pieces that are out of season can be stored there till that moment when you can bring them out again to display them.

The garage can also be repurposed as an indoor garden. Just imagine picking flowers or vegetables in your old garage! This is most useful for plant species that thrive in the dark.

Give your garage a new tidy appearance by painting it in your chosen color and you will turn this room from drab to fab. Since your garage is linked to your home, a small sidewalk and a driveway will give it an awkward feel  so you might want to install some heavy curtains that will cover the not-so-pleasant view outside. Just make sure that you install ample lighting so that the area will still be illuminated throughout the day.

Installing panes on your garage door will bring in the light from outdoors. You might want to do this if you have a wonderful scenic view of the garden or your front yard. A coat of yellow paint on the walls will give the new room a more cheerful appearance.

I.M. David Bar and Game Room Blackjack Bar 6100

I.M. David Bar and Game Room Blackjack Bar 6100

Little things that you add to your repurposed garage matter; you can make dramatic changes by adding a distinctive color on the door. Wall sconces will also light up and beautify the room. Add an overhead trellis in order to define your new space.

You can also install a new garage door plus some minimalist windows if you want to see the contemporary world outside. Have some oversized lights installed so that you can still enjoy the new room during the night.

Tie together the rest of the design elements to create a continuous style. Two windows will make a huge difference in terms of symmetry.

A breathtaking garage transformation is having a dark room changed to a welcoming guest room, games room, or a mini theatre. Just make sure that you buy the necessary furniture to meet the room requirements. A mini theatre should have ample comfy chairs, a huge TV, DVD player, a projector maybe, and a corner for the DVDs. A guest room must have a plush sofa and a comfortable bed. It must also provide other things that the guest would need such as toiletries and towels.

From FFDM's Ancestry Collection

From FFDM’s Ancestry Collection

Other Uses for the Repurposed Shed

The shed can also be repurposed just like your garage. This can be used as a guest house for your friends and relatives. This could be their place for retreat , not much different from a tree house. You can also make it look and feel like a tree house especially if you do not have one in your home.

Just place a bed, a few armchairs, a spacious cabinet, and a table inside the revamped shed and that should be enough. Do not forget to use an area rug to beautify this new spot in your property.

If you live in a farm, though, the shed can be used in a different manner. This can now serve as a chicken house. You won’t have to change much, just get additional wood and some nails and you can create partitions for all the chickens that need to be housed there.

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Posted in Interior Design 101, Special Rooms In Your Home | No Comments »

Ceiling Light: 6 Hot Buying Tips

Sunday, February 21st, 2016

 

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Civenna 3 Light Pendant 21992 is a classy addition to any traditional home.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Civenna 3 Light Pendant 21992 is a classy addition to any traditional home.

If you are thinking of updating your ceiling lights, then don’t automatically buy lampshades and settle for those that match your current decor. There is so much more to ceiling light that you should consider such as style, color, uses, and many more. You have now probably come to appreciate the benefits of correct lighting for certain rooms in your home. A simple light fitting can make or break the overall beauty of your home.

So what are the things that you need to consider when investing in ceiling lights? There are a number of aspects to look into but the fundamental one is to find out your lighting needs. Look at the rooms that need immediate ceiling lights then find out which fixtures will enhance those places.

Size Up the Room

First, consider the width of the room. Narrow, lengthy rooms can be quite awkward to illuminate. It would be wrong to install a pendant light into this kind of room, instead, you should use track lighting. Various spotlights can be mounted on a track so the light can be evenly distributed throughout the narrow room.

Kitchen and dining areas would also do well to have track lighting installed. If you want to add a touch of elegance to these rooms, then have the track light come with polished chrome.

The Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron 1 Light Copper Mini Pendant 21972 is just right for a rustic surrounding.

The Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron 1 Light Copper Mini Pendant 21972 is just right for a rustic surrounding.

Measure the Height

Ceiling lights are those lights that you need to install up there. Chandeliers and pendant lights are perfect for higher ceilings. If your home happens to have a low ceiling which is the case in many modern houses, then use flush or semi-flush fitting instead.

Crystal glass shades will look elegant in a spacious dining area. The more modern, metallic ones will look equally great in a modern setting.

Update Your Lighting

A quick way to update your home lighting is to replace the existing shades. This is your lazy option, of course, and there is nothing wrong with it. For as long as you stylize it correctly, then you can actually get away with it. If you have been using a transparent shade for the longest time, then why not change to a more modern pastel shade? This is especially restful inside the bedroom.

Keeping it simple is also a good way to update your lights. Use streamlined designs for modern homes and the more ornate ones are perfect for those who live in a traditional setting.

Those who want to make a bold statement, on the other hand, can always use lighting fixtures with funky designs and colors.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Gironico Round 5 Light Pendant 21997

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Gironico Round 5 Light Pendant 21997

Know the Ceiling Light Issues

One of the concerns for lighting a wet room is that – it is wet. If you do not know what an IP rating is, it is a way to measure how well each fitting can be protected from water or dust. IP 44, for instance, is a rating that is just right for the bathroom.

Another issue with ceiling light installation is how to childproof it. This should be done in rooms that are predominantly used by many children. Of course, you would want your light to be child-friendly while providing your illumination needs.

If your little ones want to fall asleep while the lights are still on, then find a diffuser for that particular room.

What Is the Level of Illumination

You should also think about the amount of light that you would need in each room. Each room requires different lighting. The kitchen, for instance, is lit differently from the bedroom; as is the home office from the home bar.

Larger rooms also require bigger and brighter lights. Alternatively, there are smaller fittings for rooms that do not need an awful amount of light. The lighting style which you are trying to achieve also makes a huge difference on what kind of ceiling light you will use.

Be Efficient Yet Visually Pleasant

Low energy or LED lighting are worth your investment since they can save you lots of money in the long run. Ceiling lights have to develop a sense of harmony with the rest of the home design. It would be pointless to save some money only to be left with an unattractive ceiling light right in the middle of a room.

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Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | No Comments »

How to Stylize the Patio

Saturday, February 20th, 2016

 

FFDM Harbor Spring Collection features this dining set that's perfect for the patio.

FFDM Harbor Spring Collection features this dining set that’s perfect for the patio.

If you are given a chance to choose between a patio or a deck, which one would you want? The patio is a courtyard that is not necessarily surrounded by walls. It can be attached to a house or detached from it. The patio is versatile as it can take on any shape or be built with different materials. You can find a patio made with concrete, tiles, stone, pebbles, or rocks.

Many patios are installed on a concrete slab or a pebble base. And since they are built at ground level, they do not need to have safety railings.

When you have a landscape that comes with different plant textures and types, then you don’t have to worry about adding more patterns. Take it easy, what you need is just a visual relief which can contrast the scenic view already offered by nature. Interesting furniture should provide that needed contrast.

If your patio is shielded from the harsh elements, unluckily, it is also shielded from the breezes that come during the summertime. A pergola or a roof overhead can protect the ceiling fan that you will install. This can drop the temperature during the summer season to as much as 10 degrees. You can also outfit the ceiling fan with light so you can have a little illumination during the evenings.

For homes that have limited backyard space, set up a screened seating area for the family. This should give you with a private space where the prying eyes of neighbors will not reach. There are other visually pleasing ways to gain some privacy. You can install an attractive fence, plant tall trees, or have a hedgerow.

Outdoor lighting comes with different functions. It can ensure safety on the walkways or provide a cozy ambience as the sun goes down. Lighting should therefore be a crucial part of your patio design. Pendant lighting would be nice above a dining area. It will provide a cozy feeling during those intimate dining moments with the family.

Bricked or paved patio that ends suddenly will not pair well with a larger landscape. Rather, you can transition materials then reinforce a link between the two. Pavers can provide the needed pathway from the lawn to the patio. Containers and mulch subtly segue to the planted spaces.

One excellent way to create gentle borders in your patio is to use tall trellises. They can also be the home for your flowering vines. Just check out the area’s lighting condition so that the vines won’t disrupt the illumination.

The fragrant scent of the vine will even attract the attention of passersby. Closer slats on your trellises will create a denser border for your flowering vine.

Consider borders such as different sizes of stones to separate the seating and eating areas. Red bricks can be used to define the dining area. Stone floors may also transition to stone borders that surround the patio. These can also be built to a certain height that can be used for seating.

The front yard is a curious spot to put a patio in but you can actually take advantage of this space. Decorate the area properly and you will have a lovely spot to engage with your neighbors or visitors. A planted bed can transition to the lawn.

Decorative elements can be used in a patio especially when the space is protected from the elements. For those who embrace an eclectic style, then the decor should be mainly wood, with a touch of metals, and it should use the colors of nature.

A single use patio may be too limiting for large families. You can also use the patio as your home bar. Shop for the right bar table and chairs, add bottles of wine and other liquor and you’re good. This can also be your breakfast nook.

Cap your patio design with a birdbath or a small fountain to ensure visual delight.

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Posted in Outdoors Style | No Comments »

Granite: Interior Design Uses

Saturday, February 20th, 2016

 

 Winners Only Dining Room 42 Inch Zahara Mission Tall Square Table To 60 Inch Round With Granite Lazy Susan DZH54260

Winners Only Dining Room 42 Inch Zahara Mission Tall Square Table To 60 Inch Round With Granite Lazy Susan DZH54260

Granite is the most common igneous rock that you have probably heard of. It is so-named because of its granular texture, with visible yet small crystals. Granite has been used for centuries for different purposes but most specially in building materials. When used with limestone, it was the perfect material for the pyramids in Egypt.

Granite is durable and abundant, thus, it is the preferred material for both interior and exterior applications. The granite dimension stone has been used in building bridges, buildings, monuments, paving and other exterior projects.

Indoors, granite slabs can be polished to become usable countertops and tiles. These are eventually used on flooring, kitchen countertops, and stair treads.

Granite is a prestigious material as it evokes an aura of elegance and timelessness.

The Granite Countertop

One of the most common uses of granite in the country is on kitchen countertops. It can be made of a solid granite slab that has been custom-shaped and edge-finished.

There has been an insatiable demand for granite countertops in the past years that a huge number of contractors now train themselves to have them installed. They also spend more money to add the equipment used in cutting and shaping this stone.

Many local dealers can now install this great material into your kitchen. An increase on the price of the countertop itself can give you the leeway to ask for a discount on the installation price. ‘Want to have a pink countertop instead of the usual black or gray color of granite? You can now have it installed in pink!

Flexsteel Living Room Round Coffee Table 6717-034

Flexsteel Living Room Round Coffee Table 6717-034

The Granite Work Station

Apart from solid granite slab countertops, this material can also be used as a durable work station. Granite tiles can be used to create an elevated counter, backsplash or a sink. More often than not, smooth, finished granite is used for the work station.

Rough cut granite is the least expensive type and it can offer a rugged appearance. Finishing granite blocks can get really pricey but it provides a smoother, more refined appearance.

The Granite Flooring

Granite tiles can be used as flooring material or wall panels. Granite flooring or walls have an elegant and a shiny appearance. Stones used for this kind of tiles is referred to as the gabbro (at least this is the proper term used by geologists). In the decorative stone industry, though, it is still simply referred to as granite.

Granite pavers or paving stones can be an interesting deviation from the usually boring driveway or patio. Since it is a natural stone, it can provide a unique look while giving the best artisans a way to express their creativity.

Back in the day, granite was used to pave the streets. The biggest construction projects use this stone either as a structural element or as a decorative facing.

The Granite Furniture

What a lovely idea it was to finally use this sturdy material together with other raw materials to create furniture. This piece of rock has a lot to offer in terms of durability and timeless beauty. Its usual black color makes it an elegant selection for stylish coffee tables, strong dining tables, and other such beautiful pieces.

You are definitely interested in granite since you have read thus far. Visit our shop and find out which furniture pieces will suit your preference. Are you redesigning your dining area? Then it would be a waste if you did not invest on our square table with a granite Lazy Susan. Imagine inviting your friends over and them noticing your chic dining table. You would surely be proud to tell them of the resilience of granite which is a significant part of your dining set.

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Posted in Bathroom Design, Flooring Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | No Comments »

Redesigning Flooring: Hardwood or Carpeting?

Friday, February 19th, 2016

 

Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Carpet Grip 12' x 15' Rug 8330RS12001500000

Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Carpet Grip 12′ x 15′ Rug 8330RS12001500000

The floor is defined by an online dictionary to be the surface of a room wherein one stands. If you are looking into redesigning the floor of your home, then you have to know where your starting point is. There are so many factors to look into such as the textures that are going to be used, also the palette, quality and patterns. You wouldn’t want to overlook these crucial elements once the redesigning project is on its way.

There are various floor designs that you can choose from which makes it difficult, at times, to decide on what details to use. If you are working alone, without the help of an interior designer, then you know that you need to consider your budget and style seriously.

The lighting inside your home will also affect the kind of flooring that you will install. There are flooring designs that could look lighter or darker depending on the amount of light that is focused onto it. Such flooring materials may look different inside the showroom so be careful when you harmonize the lighting and flooring.

You can find inspirational photos online which can help you personalize your flooring. You can choose from colorful tiles, wooden planks, hand-painted floors, terrazzo flooring, even porcelain tiles. Choose the style that speaks to you and have fun as you begin your flooring design project.

The Accessories Uttermost Chouteau Floor Clock 06086 will look perfect on a light hardwood floor.

The Accessories Uttermost Chouteau Floor Clock 06086 will look perfect on a light hardwood floor.

Redesigning Flooring: Using Hardwoods

Hardwood floors present a unique splendor that can make decorating a tad more daunting. Hardwood floors can account for a huge part of your interior design budget only because they are built to last.

Since you are choosing hardwood for your flooring, you also have to consider the design for your entire home. The wood type and finish of the flooring you selected will inevitably set the atmosphere. A traditional style requires oak or ash floors. Other such woods have grains that have a timeless look. They also come in a variety of finishes and stains.

Those who want to have a contemporary home should look for the monochromatic options such as maple, or the unique patterns offered by sapele or tigerwood.

Cherry, hickory and other hardwoods would be perfect for those who choose a rustic style.

Another aspect of hardwood flooring is to check on the finish. There is a huge array of stains and finishes for hardwood floors. Should you prefer contrasts, then use a dark finish on the flooring combined with light furniture.

  • Match the flooring material with the rest of the design elements in your home. Dark stained flooring with a high gloss will look perfect in a modern setting. Rustic lovers will want to use hand-scraped hardwoods in different hues. Honey and mahogany hues will surely be embraced by traditionalists.

Redesigning Flooring: How About a Carpet?

Buying a brand new carpet can be your next best option. This is for those who are still undecided on the final material that they will use for their flooring.

Find out how you can buy the best carpet with these helpful tips –

  • Examine the carpet with a foot traffic test.
  • Do your interior painting a month before carpet installation.
  • Check out different carpet colors and styles by taking home some samples.
  • Ask for estimates from your carpet dealers. Visit McCreery’s Home Furnishings or check out our carpet choices here on our website.
  • Do not be pressured into buying anything on your first visit to the store. Take your time as you choose the carpet that you would install in your home.
  • Measure the rooms where the carpet will be installed.
  • Always keep the sales receipt for purposes of warranty.

Whether you choose a hardwood floor or to cover up the current floor with a carpet, is really up to you. Redesigning flooring can be an exciting phase of your life as a homeowner so enjoy while you are at it.

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Posted in Flooring Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »

Vacation Home for Rent: Creating the Perfect Getaway Villa

Friday, February 19th, 2016

 

The Fine Furniture Design Bedroom Bedford Pineapple Post Headboard, Queen 5.0 1020-251 will make your vacation home a restful haven.

The Fine Furniture Design Bedroom Bedford Pineapple Post Headboard, Queen 5.0 1020-251 will make your vacation home a restful haven.

Would you want your real estate property turned into a vacation home for rent? Being the owner of a rental property will make you a recognizable person in your community. When done correctly, you can have repeat customers that will bring you a good amount of revenue for years to come.

Do not make the mistake of cleaning the property only when you are the one who gets to use it. Keep it up to date by making it a home away from home. Of course, you would want your customers to feel special and well taken care of.

A Guide to Dressing Up a Vacation Home

Furnishing your vacation home is quite different from designing your own home. The former is much like a hotel room so it has to have a semblance of luxury, comfort and durability. The furniture and decorative items that you use there have to be able to withstand the wear and tear of weekly renters. Spend wisely on the best furniture items as well as all the things that you offer inside the vacation home from the tissue rolls to the bedding, even down to the carpet.

Take some time to picture your vacation rental home. Honestly ask yourself whether you would be able to sleep there together with your family. Also, would you be happy to pay the price and return to this same place again?

The answers to these questions will tell you whether you will have repeat customers or you would simply have another property sitting to gather dust.

Hancock and Moore Living Room Edwardo Sofa 5707-3: This will look perfect when facing warm, crackling fire inside the living room.

Hancock and Moore Living Room Edwardo Sofa 5707-3: This will look perfect when facing warm, crackling fire inside the living room.

Protect Your Vacation Home

Be up-to-date when it comes to your furnishings. Spend your money wisely on furniture that will last. When you decide to rent out your property, you must be initially thinking of it as a kind of business, and it is, in essence. While it is a place that is yours, you always need to consider what would make your guests’ stay a meaningful one.

More often than not, guests want to use furniture that is durable. So instead of putting a glass laden furniture piece in the middle of a living room, have a hardwood center table instead. This can better sustain scratches and the daily rigors of guest accommodation especially guests that have children or pets with them.

As for the upholstered pieces, do not wait for the fabric to turn dirty before you set out to clean it. Have it professionally cleaned once every year. Regularly apply stain protectants.

A good way to protect your real estate property is to hold regular maintenance works such as having the plumbing and electrical fixtures checked.

A Colorful Yet Restful Vacation Home

Vacationers want to rest when they ask to rent your property. Most are only going to stay for a week so you have to give them the most relaxing ambience that you could come up with. You would never go wrong with a beach theme, after all, what could be more relaxing than this?

Another way to make a colorful vacation home is to carefully choose your paint and accessories. Put some colors on those boring walls then dress the place up with beautiful accessories. High gloss paint will last longer in your vacation home. It is perfect for your property because it does not wear off or scuff easily.

If you are undecided with regard to the room colors, then have a sample can of your chosen paints. These just cost a few dollars so you can try the color prior to fully committing to it.

Never be just another cookie cutter vacation home. Place a mirror or an artwork on the wall to create a powerful statement on your vacation home for rent.

 

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Posted in Interior Design 101, Special Rooms In Your Home | No Comments »

The Craft Room: Your Creation Station

Friday, February 19th, 2016

 

Winners Only Home Office Country Cherry Writing Desk KM131PTN doubles as a shelf for the rest of your hobby needs.

Winners Only Home Office Country Cherry Writing Desk KM131PTN doubles as a shelf for the rest of your hobby needs.

A beautiful room is often construed to be created only by artists or designers. None can be farther from the truth. While a little professional help won’t hurt, you will always have the freedom to design your home according to your whim. If you are trying to set up a craft room, what sort of style do you think would suit your personality? And aren’t you excited to begin your new design project?

Craft Room Must-Haves

Okay, so you’ve taken on a hobby that now requires a room of its own. You have probably fallen in love with knitting or cross stitching. Or are you one of the few who had taken on sewing? There’s just so much to do and so many tools and materials to stock, so you’re probably feeling a little nauseous about setting up a place for your knick knacks.

First, make sure that you buy a special desk that is dedicated to your hobby or craft. The last thing that you would need is to sit in a corner, with your back bent, while sewing or crocheting. Of course, you would want to be properly seated when you do your hobby. A crowded desk is better than having no desk at all.

If you have limited space, then you can have a contained desk with deep drawers. Pair it with a lovely chair, one that harmonizes with the color scheme you picked. This is a nice spot for you and your visitors, one that you can boast about.

Find a desk that has ample drawers where you can store some of your materials. It should be your goal to give every accessory a home of its own. Cabinets can effectively organize the rest of your materials. You can also categorize bills and receipts in a bottom cabinet.

This lovely piece from FFDM's Textures Collection is perfect for the hobbyist's room.

This lovely piece from FFDM’s Textures Collection is perfect for the hobbyist’s room.

Find an accordion style lamp that you can retract once your crafting projects are done.

A fabric board can also be installed. You can post your sketches on it and notes on what to do the following days. A peg board may also be used to keep supplies handy. A long worktable can offer a great amount of space for your crafting needs without being bulky.

If your hobby is collecting decorative items or keeping a journal or album of your travels, then you should seriously think about having a usable shelf. A console can also hold scrapbooking supplies and family photographs.

Always find the right containers that will fuse with the rest of the craft room decor. Find glass jars, bins, and foldable or stackable items. You wouldn’t want to feel stressed as clutter begins to accumulate in the room. You will be thankful once all the storage bins and spaces will do their job.

Have a carpet installed if you want to add a pleasant touch to your new craft room. An area rug will be perfect for that practical space while not disrupting the homey feeling in the adjacent rooms.

Latticework can also be installed on the walls. They can offer a sense of movement which is the perfect backdrop to a room that needs productivity.

If you do not have a separate room for your craft space, then you can simply allot a portion of the living room or bedroom. This does not necessarily require a door so you can just use curtains or a divider to add a sense of style and privacy at the same time.

Lastly, have an inspiration wall for your craft space. This will be your display area for some of your finished works and a visual haven for those who pay you a visit.

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Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Special Rooms In Your Home | No Comments »

What to Do With That Blank Wall: From Boring to Stunning

Thursday, February 18th, 2016

 

BLANK WALL. ffdm american cherryIf you can visualize a blank wall as a canvas where you can unleash your creativity, then there is no way that your home could have boring walls. An artistic mind can easily make blank walls burst to life, thus, making a house a home and not an impersonal or sterile place. The walls of your home can serve as a place for your decorative accessories. They can even be a place where you store some stuff.

Blank Wall Decorating Ideas

  • If you live in a place where rules prevent you from permanently affixing decor on the walls, then you should consider the washi tape pattern. Your dorm or apartment will never look boring again once you use different patterns and colors with your washi tape. If you get bored with the initial style that you used, then just switch to another look. It’s as easy as 1-2-3.
  • Even the smallest of areas such as an entryway or a nook will look more exciting when something exciting is placed there. Why not have ornamental sconces installed on the walls? These will instantly add that needed sparkle in a usually dim hallway or corner.
  • If the walls of your kitchen need sprucing up, then go ahead and frame your favorite photographs. Hang the frames on your new kitchen photo gallery; this is something that your friends will enjoy looking at. This is also something that will spur conversations during dull evenings.
  • Speaking of frames, you can also frame old maps and use them as framed art on your blank walls. Destination spots such as Paris or London will be interesting maps that you can hang on an otherwise uninteresting wall.
  • Accessories Uttermost Powell Wooden Wall Clock 06344

    Accessories Uttermost Powell Wooden Wall Clock 06344

    Still on framed stuff, why not hang framed chalkboards? These are not just decorative pieces but they can also serve as a spot to write your messages to family members or where reminders can be posted.

  • An alternative to chalkboards are corkboards. You can use one wall to install your corkboard on and right beneath it would be your workspace. Just like the chalkboard, the corkboard will serve as a holding spot for memos, photos and cards.
  • A mirror is also a powerful statement piece that you can hang on a blank wall. Notice how the beautiful mirror balances the American Cherry drawer from FFDM (feature photo). Smaller spaces tend to look much more spacious when mirrors are installed. Fill a gap on the wall by hanging a fine-looking mirror.
  • Decorating an empty staircase wall is as easy as hanging rustic wood baskets. Check out some rustic pieces in our line of accessories to beautify this part of your home.
  • Wallpapers can be quite tedious to install so if you feel that it would take much time to have a room installed with this wall cover, then just opt for the easier option – make a photo collage. Cover a single wall with family photos. This will be a beautiful alternative to a painted focal wall.
  • Blank walls can also be the place for shelves to rest against. Some shelves, especially when carefully chosen, can add character to a room.
  • Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Iron And Brass Wall Sconce 1900-004

    Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Iron And Brass Wall Sconce 1900-004

    And what is a living room wall without an eye-catching clock? A clock can be a lovely piece of artwork and an elegant accessory that can serve as wall decor. An expansive wall should have an oversized clock. Look for designs that convey a timeless elegance.

  • Dress up empty walls by putting wall decals. Bare walls will be automatically transformed into chic canvasses as you apply colorful wall decals.
  • Wall-mounted candleholders will also look great on a bare wall. Flank or separate them, it all boils down to your preference. One thing is certain – that blank wall will never be unexciting again.

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Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Wall Design | No Comments »

The Makings of An Irresistibly Gorgeous Rustic Kitchen

Thursday, February 18th, 2016

 

FFDM's Brentwood Collection offers this sturdy, hardwood table that can sit perfectly inside a rustic kitchen with a space for dining area.

FFDM’s Brentwood Collection offers this sturdy, hardwood table that can sit perfectly inside a rustic kitchen with a space for dining area.

Are you an individual who loves simple things? Would you want this simplistic you to be brought even to your remodelled kitchen? The simplicity of rustic kitchens is the right texture that you should look into. You would probably imagine the look as having rough logs and hand-woven carpets or having wooden planks for floors. It is a style that is unpretentious and organic, one that is naturally warm. It is no wonder that it has become quite popular in the interior design industry these days.

Rustic interiors, especially in the kitchen, works beautifully because it offers a traditional feeling that it difficult to ignore. Rustic kitchens evoke those times when food preparation was simple and families dined happily. In a world where everything is fast-paced and brutal, rustic interiors provide that bold yet simple concept that is now rarely seen.

You will surely love rustic kitchens of you are the type who loves old things. Real wood fascinates you and old shirts feel so much more comfortable for you.

Rustic Kitchen: Starting Your Design Project

Applying rustic design to your kitchen could begin with exposed beams. This is an effective way to architecturally begin your kitchen project. Use the kitchen beams to frame the ceilings and to define those beautiful doorways.

You can also line the walls with rough-hewn beams. ‘Want a cabin charm in your kitchen? Then simply add logs on the walls.

The Accessories Uttermost Bouchard Crates Set2 19782 can hold fresh produce.

Beautify your rustic kitchen with these Accessories Uttermost Hewson Plant Stands Set2 24313. A little green won’t hurt to instill the kitchen’s natural concept.

Rustic Kitchen Furnishings

A lot of mass-produced pieces weaken the look of a rustic kitchen. So when choosing furnishings, be sure to find those with strong, rough profiles like baskets, bread trough, and trays. To tighten your rustic kitchen’s traditional look, find clean cabinetry and shelving to balance the rest of the space while providing ample storage for your pots and pans.

Achieve the weathered look throughout the kitchen by saying no to shiny stuff and newness. You would like the kitchen surfaces to look aged, distressed, or tarnished in the case of metallic stuff. If you want to add a bit of shimmer, then use copper pots and pans as display items. These will not disrupt the beauty of the striking wood in your kitchen.

Rustic Kitchen Colors and Textures

Now that you know how to effectively use copper and wooden furnishings, it’s time to look into other hues that will beautifully coalesce with the rest of the design. A rustic palette can also use jewel tones as well as subtle pastels.

Stone and soil colors, lime green and magenta are lovely colors that you can add to layer the look of your rustic kitchen. Be one with nature once you decide to have a rustic kitchen. Don’t think that you are limited to brown shades only. There is so much more that you can do to establish the traditional look in the heart of your home.

Lace and silk have no place inside a rustic kitchen. Now when it comes to fabrics, you have to carefully choose those that are durable rather than those that are delicate. Use a lot of wool, linen, cotton or burlap. Ikat prints will also blend well inside a rustic kitchen as would any barn-inspired fabrics.

The Accessories Uttermost Bouchard Crates Set2 19782 can hold fresh produce.

The Accessories Uttermost Bouchard Crates Set2 19782 can hold fresh produce.

Rustic Kitchen Requirements

You are now dealing with natural overtones so you might feel that, at times, your kitchen is just an extension of the lively outdoors. Screens can blur the usual boundaries between the kitchen interiors and the scenic outdoors.

The rustic kitchen door is generally made from timber or it can simply have a sliding cloth. Kitchen accessories can be displayed on open shelves while benches made from wood idly sit nearby.

Timber ceiling is a must, in fact, it is the perfect choice for your rustic kitchen. Use rustic stools to cement the traditional look of your rustic kitchen.

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What Is Green Living?

Thursday, February 18th, 2016

 

Living Room Uttermost Avner Wooden Cube Table 25603 offers a unique and stylish look to your home as you transition to green living.

Living Room Uttermost Avner Wooden Cube Table 25603 offers a unique and stylish look to your home as you transition to green living.

Also known as eco living, green living is tantamount to saying that you are living in a sustainable home. This is, after all, the standard that the world looks up to. It is because of this that manufacturers find ways to tell the world about their green credentials. Even appliances now come with energy-saving functions. Some materials that are used in food and other packaging are now recyclable or are actually recycled materials. This new generation of sustainable furniture as well as lighting designs aim to satiate people who have become aware of their roles in keeping Mother Earth intact.

Green Living in Your Home

Healthy interiors can make the tenants feel more comfortable and satisfied. In workplaces, it can even foster employee retention.

Occupant interaction with the surroundings can also impact individual emotional and mental wellness. For offices, it can even improve building operations. Since this is so, it should now be your goal to create sustainable interiors right in your own home.

You should now pledge to make productive use of your space and to use only eco-friendly lights and furniture. Also, the ambiance in your home should have green written all over it.

The Artistica Bedroom Axiom King Bed 560-566 is sustainable. It is built with plantation-grown parawood solids as well as acacia veneers.

The Artistica Bedroom Axiom King Bed 560-566 is sustainable. It is built with plantation-grown parawood solids as well as acacia veneers.

Green Living: Lighting

There are many benefits that come with eco living and when you decide to apply it even in interior design. You can now effectively combine energy saving technology with utility. Many appliances now have energy storage with some even installed with photovoltaic cells.

With eco-friendly lighting come not just energy savings but also the perfect look for ambient spaces. Energy saving bulbs use up less energy when compared to traditional light bulbs. What a wonderful sight it is to behold a dynamically created lighting fixture in your home! It spells poetry in the form of light while serving as a reliable light source for your lovely ambience.

Green Living Is In

Just like other design industries, the world of interior design is forever tied to volatile styles. In essence, it is like assessing clothes whether they are hot or they’re not.

Whether the client’s goal is to renovate, decorate or to create architectural detailing, interior designers must always be up on their toes with regard to what’s hot in their field. The trend at the moment – and probably the fastest growing segment of the interior design industry nowadays – is sustainability.

Bamboo and other sustainable materials are hot. And with the ASID (American Society of Interior Designers attesting that sustainability should be one of the areas of focus for interior designers today, everyone is simply geared towards the use of sustainable materials and wasting not. Even the curricula in different design schools already include sustainability as one of their crucial courses.

The Artistica Dining Room Idiom Arm Chair 451-010 is manufactured using plantation grown elm. It is beautifully combined with industrial steel to give you that architectural and textural wonder.

The Artistica Dining Room Idiom Arm Chair 451-010 is manufactured using plantation grown elm. It is beautifully combined with industrial steel to give you that architectural and textural wonder.

Green Living for the Homeowner

Whether you wish to become an interior designer someday or are just taking on an interior design project on your own, then you have to remember these guidelines –

  • Make good use of the space. Efficiently use every nook and cranny and make sure that you use resources and construction materials to a bare minimum. Apodments which are the hottest solutions in city living are 300-square foot housing developments that already have built-in amenities such as microwave and refrigerator. Use the concept that these new dwelling places offer. Be sure to maximize your home’s square footage.
  • Use energy-wise design materials, meaning, those that come from renewable sources. Install windows and doors that optimize energy efficiency.
  • Reduce waste in your home and use energy-efficient lighting. Minimize use of artificial lighting.
  • Use only non-toxic or non-polluting products.

Green living doesn’t have to be time consuming. It is a matter of making that conscious decision to change your lifestyle and the way you run things in your home. Yet this does not mean that your living space should look boring, though. You can still beautify your home by using your artistic eye in choosing sustainable furnishings.

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