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Tuesday, February 7th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Living Room Nest of (3) Tables are perfect and convenient for small apartment settings.
An apartment is a wonderful habitat option for people who have just gotten married, graduated from college or who have just moved in to the big city. When you’re trying to decide between getting an apartment or investing in a house, it is crucial to take certain things to consideration. In essence, you have to look at the pros and cons from all angles.
Another option is for you to rent while earning ample finance for your real estate property. There are rental spaces that could give you a fair share of comfort and beauty. There are design dilemmas to worry about, though, but they can be overcome.
Up the look of your new apartment by stylizing. Don’t be fearful about screwing things up a bit. Just be smart as you create the design that actually works for you.
Liven Up the Walls
Use removable wallpaper to make your walls more exciting. This is a less permanent way of beautifying your walls initially. Pick a vibrant pattern that could offer an exciting statement wall or just stick to the neutral style that could easily make larger spaces look more colorful.
You don’t have to go gaga over the pattern. Just focus on what color you really want and what is the right one that would set the right mood. You can also create a lovely wall right behind your headboard or that charming loveseat. The right pattern could also make the bathroom walls more interesting (just make sure that you get the waterproof type, though).
Spotlight on the Details
Invest in some Japanese masking tape. This will help you spruce up any plain edge of a desk or dresser. What’s great about this is that it’s also easy to remove.
Lighting can also be effectively used to transform any part of your home. A simple LED lighting system can make any rental home look chic. Define any room using the correct kind of lighting. Have some ambient lighting right in your living room and some dimmers installed for your bedroom lights.
It’s All About Location
If you still don’t have a car then it matters that you choose the correct location for your apartment; more so if you’re just starting on a new job.
It is also a lot easier to invest in an apartment when you want to live in a prime city location. Houses that are built in such areas tend to be more expensive and more difficult to acquire especially for a single homeowner. Living in an apartment is the beneficial alternative that can make walking to work possible and enjoying the nightlife without hassle.
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Think of the Amenities
Many homeowners would love to live in a home with complete amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis court and a gym. Unless you’re ready to invest in those at the moment, then your next best alternative is to rent a unit in an apartment complex and enjoy these amenities in your small community. Yes, you will have to share with a few people for now but what’s social life without connecting with your neighbors?
Security Is Crucial
When you’re moving to a new property, it is also vital that you and your loved one would feel secure. A huge advantage of living in apartments is that you have layers of security especially when you’re going to live in a gated complex.
There are codes before anyone can get to the apartment building, there are also CCTV cameras installed, and there are even some that have a lock and an alarm clock right on the front doors.
Less Cost
On top of it all, the cost of living in an apartment is a lot less than when you’re maintaining a huge home. With the above factors checked, see if you’re ready to commit to apartment living soon.
Tags: designing small space, living in a small space, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Apartment Living, Interior Design 101 | Comments Off on You and Your First Apartment: Factors to Consider When Moving to a Tiny Habitat
Tuesday, February 7th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Dining Room Sanctuary Windsor Side Chair-Ebony 3005-75330: Wood is timeless, period.
Traditional – also known as classic style – is a timeless design for a lot of reasons. It is always symmetrical, it is conservative, comfortable and charming.
A Little History
French design played a huge role in the creation of the traditional style. The furniture styles, to begin with, became unique and quite popular during the reign of Kings Louie XIII till the XVI. The open-arm chair, for instance, was then paired with the console table. This duo became the predecessor to the Neo Classical style.
The fluted legs were a clear stray from the curvy legs that Louis XV loved. The design then hearkened to the ancient yet classic looks that the Romans and Greeks popularized. The extensive appeal of parquet flooring made Louis XIV use it for the rest of Versailles.
Use Period Pieces
What’s the bedroom without the traditional four-poster bed? This lovely piece was introduced during the 15th century with an original purpose of merely supporting fabric hangings. These, when closed, can reduce drafts while keeping the sleeper warm.
Minus the draperies, the homeowners are still charmed with the look that’s offered by the four-poster bed.
Establish Symmetry
French doors offer space that create balance. Use period chairs in a formal look and have them surround the equally classic table. A hutch complete with plate railing is the best way to highlight your collection of chinaware.
Endless Charm
Create a look that’s simple, one that’s airy and light. Begin with using white balusters and pair them with polished black railing. This is a fundamental yet always trendy look for any traditional design. Arrange your family photos using lovely frames and have the line the hardwood steps on your stairs.
Wool can be chosen for its timeless and durable appeal.
The English Impact
White and black toile wallpaper can set the classic tone to an open entryway as well as in the dining room. Use a drop-leaf table and pair it with classic chairs such as a Windsor chair. This kind of chair is portable and lightweight, thus, it can be used either indoors or outdoors.
English expats were the ones that brought the classic chair to the American continent where the look has become popular till this day.
The classic style may look predictable but in a good way. For the dining room, you can use upholstered chairs with painted frame and durable fabric. Pair this with a glossy wood table, add a matching buffet and this should be the best ensemble for your dining area.
The Patterned Paper
This is a useful element in any traditional home. Use patterned wall covers which became quite popular, first in Europe, then the rest of the world. These are referred to as tapestries. The thick fabrics acted as insulators as well as artwork. Add more timeless look by backing colorful fabrics with sizing. Apply these to the walls right above the dining area’s wainscot with white trimming.
It’s All About the Details
Ornamentation is the key to using the traditional design. An element that you can use is a white piece of furniture that features curved legs, leaf as molding, ornate rosettes and motifs. The classic touch can be completed with a gray and white marble backsplash with an S-shaped edge.
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Architectural Drama
Moldings and wood carvings are the hallmarks of classic style. Whether streamlined or ornate, these are the best ways to provide a small space with a more upscale design. No traditional home, of course, is complete without the classic beauty offered by a crystal chandelier.
Show Your Collections
Collections are meant to be displayed and not enjoyed by just one person. So go ahead and have the lively living room become the gallery to your artwork. If you love collecting porcelain ware, then have a china cabinet placed in your dining room.
Tags: classic design, classical design, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, timeless design
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Your Home and Its Timeless Appeal
Monday, February 6th, 2017
Uttermost Accessories Massena, Photo Collage, S7 Metal Wall Art 14458 can make memory preservation a lot more chic and fun.
Stairs are a lot like bridges. They are able to link different locations and enable people to go from one place to the next. Stairs make two ends meet as they are a series of steps from the bottom level to the top. But how important are stairs really? While you do live each day using this wonderful architectural part, still, you might not have realized its importance till this day.
Stairs aid in the construction of multi-level homes and skyscrapers. They become aids in saving space for real estate while creating enormous rooms from the ground up. Elevators could take the place of stairs but they will never be able to replace the former’s utility and purpose. Emergency stairs, for example, are a requirement for building codes throughout the world. These are necessary during electrical power outage, earthquakes, fires and other emergencies and natural calamities.
Stairs come with different forms and designs depending on their fundamental purpose. The wealthy and luxurious homes often come with rare woods and exotic lumbers. To have the most out of a stairway, the homeowner must be able to visualize and come up with a design that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasant.
Let’s Go Vertical
One other type of stairs come with vertical shafts. These contain stairways that spiral to the highest floor. This is generally used in structures that need to conserve space (e.g. the stairs inside a lighthouse). There are also stairs that take on the weirdest shapes and forms just so they are suitable to modern living.
Stairs might be designed as a single-flight structure or it could be a series of flight but for as long as they serve their function, then whatever materials they come in is just another factor.
If you’re planning to build some stairs in your home, then find out what factors you have to seriously consider.
The Faux Planked Walls
If you want to create the look of dual planked walls, then it’s as easy as drawing horizontal lines using a pencil.
Use Durable Materials
In picking building materials, be sure to find the hardy types. These are the ones that can take a beating. Don’t forget about aesthetics, though. Be sure to establish a striking contrast under the staircase.
Go Nautical
Another way to decorate the staircase is to set it up as a beach front. This nautical vibe should mainly have colors of blue, white and other seaside colors. Use a hammock, hats, and some seashells, add a lovely trunk and you’ve completed your charming coastal look.
Polished with Black
You can have the banisters painted with slick black. You could also have touches of black on other design elements. This is also an effective way to control other colors from becoming too loud or tasteless. Such is the case when blue, red or white tend to takeover.
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Numbered Steps
You can also stencil some numbers on the steps of your stairs. These can give the person a little activity to do while going up the stairs.
Lined with Souvenirs
What better way is there to design stairways than to have memories displayed all over? You can have a group of interesting photographs framed and displayed for everyone to enjoy. Do you have a noteworthy collection? Then have it set up for viewing.
Use Powerful Accents
Be bold. Use contrasting colors or have loud hues become the dominant color. Use bright patterns on your stair runner or add some plain colors to an already vibrant stairs. If these aren’t enough, try geometric patterns that take center stage where all other designs and looks fail.
Tags: decorating the stairs, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, stair decor, stairway decoration
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Staircase Decoration Made Simple
Monday, February 6th, 2017
The Flexsteel Living Room Leather Or Fabric Rocking Recliner 1218-510 is perfect for the elderly and their seating needs.
According to The State of Aging and Health in America, it is expected that the population of people older than 65 years is expected to double in the next 25 years. This is roughly 20% of the American population and it comes with certain consequences.
There are, of course, many outcomes to an increase in the population of the elderly. First, there’s going to be an adjustment in the cost of health care. Also, the senior people’s mobility should also be taken care of. And the most important aspect of all – safety – must be given priority.
Architect’s Roles
The architects come with crucial roles when it comes to designing for this specific demographics. Seniors come with unique needs and living standards so the architects are faced with design challenges. They have to be more innovative in creating fresh blueprints that are ingenious and, at the same time, modern.
Mobility Aids
The elderly encounter living struggles each day. One of these struggles is mobility, thus, the home design has to be more accessible. Architects need to create designs that don’t have stairs, with bigger hallways, and more spacious floor plans.
The doorways also have to be considered. These have to be wider than usual. Also, the sinks have to be lower and the safety showers and bathtubs are supposed to be carefully set up. Relatives must also be able to view their elderly relatives with the use of wireless video monitors.
These all mean that architects must practice ingenuity. Those who embrace new ideas and designs are the ones who will surely succeed in upping their home design niche.
Remodeling for the Elderly
Getting older doesn’t always equate to having limited independence. The aging population must not give up in living a normal life. For this to happen, it would mean architects and designers working within the current design yet thinking of ways to make the place more accessible to the elderly. They must be able to devise ways to create a more functional and safe place.
Remodeling could require tearing down walls just to set up the new open space layout. There must be as little obstruction as possible. The home would also require improved lighting systems and bigger windows.
Lighting for the Elderly
Poor lighting equals accidents. Aging means having vision problems due to macular degeneration and reduced retina functions.
It may also require new lighting systems and new, larger windows in order to optimize the homes lighting.
There are functional and attractive lighting systems for the elderly. These must have protection from glaring. Quality lighting means LED lighting in most aspects or fluorescent lamps at the very least.
Color for Seniors
Colors could actually help improve the elderly’s visibility. For instance, dark colors on your bathroom walls could easily indicate the location of the toilet seat as well as the light-colored porcelain sink.
Colors are also known to affect mood and seniors have a tendency to be depressed so the right hues could actually keep them from being shut-off from the world. Greens and pinks could make anyone feel more at peace while orange and shades of red could up people’s energy levels.
Changing the colors in seniors’ homes could have a profound effect on their overall wellbeing. This single step could increase the joy that older people feel within their homes.
Modified designs for homes could improve people’s quality of life on so many ways. Architects have to design for the aging population and must come with inventive ways to make life easier for them.
Only through proper lighting, correct color choice and the right layout can the seniors live a safer and more blissful lives.
Tags: home for seniors, home for the elderly, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Designing the Elderly-friendly Home: Importance of Design, Mobility Structures, Lighting and Color
Friday, February 3rd, 2017
Henredon Living Room Buffet 9401-21
Classicism is a kind of design that’s evident in European art during the 17th to the 18th centuries. This is reflected in architecture, art, literature and music. Also simply called as the classic style, it has been utilized as a style for nobles’ homes.
Classic homes are attractive because of their tranquil colors. They also evoke a high sense of dignity. These days, classic homes are being picked by the well-to-do. They are the ones who have a settled preference as well as an appreciation for longstanding cultural values. They are the ones who know what’s enduring and why it will always win against fleeting fashion.
Classicism and Its History
Classicism began in France during the 17th century. This soon spread to the rest of Europe and became a leading style for two centuries. The artists of those centuries were largely inspired by the arts of Rome and Greece. These evoked rigor, simplicity and clarity.
Despite having strict rules, classic style was embraced by many other nations. It was France, though, that showed the full luster and splendor of this design. When compared to English classicism which is more rigorous and rational, the French version was more straightforward.
It was during the reign of Catherine the Great that a reasonable restraint was placed on Classicism. This was shown when classic style invaded Russia. Petersburg and other such buildings are the living proofs of this enduring design. Other noble estates throughout the Russian Empire also reflected this design.
Russian classicism brought about a brand new trend during the 18th to the 19th centuries. This design now allowed the fusion of classics with other designs.
Mimicking Classicism
So now you’ve realized the beauty of classicism. It is not too difficult to set up in your home. You just need to recognize the features that will make your interiors more classic.
First, be wary of your home’s architecture. Your place must have discreet columns, cornices, windows and doors. These must also have clear outlines. Marble fireplaces are welcome. Creating a rectangular form for these elements will surely pay off.
Next, don’t go gaga over your color palette. Use light pastels for your color scheme.
Classical ornaments include laurel or oak leaves and Greek meander. These must be arranged at a certain order as well as symmetry. Make sure that the stuccos, arches, columns and half-columns are emphasized.
One good interior design practice is to be orderly in all things. The design elements must also be respectable and predictable. They must show a level of solidarity that’s difficult to match.
This may not be your cheapest choice when it comes to interior design but you and your family will surely love the outcome. Know that your home will be forever independent from the trends that most homes default to.
Nothing’s Cheap
Classicism will never embrace cheap finish. Every material used must be unique or at least natural, therefore, its price tag is steep. Plasters and columns are often made of marble while stuccos are handmade.
Walls are covered with panels of natural wood or cloth. Used parquet is a common flooring material though kitchens, bathrooms and living room could have stone or marble tiles.
Hooker Furniture Bedroom Auberose King Panel Bed
Classic Colors
Colors and contrasts in classicism do not show bright hues. The shades are neutral and calm. Often used are beige, olive green, cream, gold and light green. These are reflected on furnishings and textiles. It is also okay to use different shades of brown (which is why wood is a welcome element).
Don’t forget, though, that the room must not look dark or gloomy. Textiles and upholstery must use blue green, blue or sandy colors.
Tags: classic home, classic interior design, classic interiors, classicism, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Classicism: Why Old Is Still In
Friday, February 3rd, 2017
Let the chi flow with these Maitland-Smith Accessories Cast Brass Chinese Temples 1043-141.
The 21st century globalization has brought about many unique and fresh concepts with regard to design and décor in homes. One such theme that’s new to the Western world (though not too new to the Oriental world) is the Chinese interior design.
If you take the time to look at Oriental homes, you will surely admire their opulence a well as their unique beauty. At first, the features seem to be easy to mimic though once you set foot to replicate the design, you end up being lost.
Chinese Design History
Thousands of years ago, Chinese interior design focused on the principles of nature, energy and simplicity. The surroundings served as their inspiration as they strive to have an ambience that’s tranquil.
Chinese culture is also centered on tradition, hence, the elements also reflect the overall values of the people who live in such homes.
Chinese Design Fundamentals
A basic principle that’s widely observed in Chinese interior design is minimalism. This could be a room that’s filled with different sorts of decorative elements though it still appears basic. What’s crucial is the placement of the valuable objects so that they achieve the optimal effect.
Chinese interior design is also about the use of just a few focal points. The rooms in such a home must remain simple, light and airy though it still reflects the owner’s taste.
Another design element in Chinese style is the use of screens. You may picture this in many Japanese homes but Chinese interior design also employs this decorative and functional piece.
Screens liven up any room while keeping the privacy, too. Years ago, such frames were made using light materials. Latticework serves as the grid for paper or sheer fabrics. These days, screens are already made using different materials like bamboo.
A common screen that’s seen in many Chinese interiors is the dressing screen. It is foldable and it can easily fit into a nook. This is an affordable way of adding an Asian touch to your interiors. What’s great with screens is that they can be used in any kind of theme.
Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Poppy Chest
Chinese Feng Shui
Majority of Chinese interior design principles work around the concepts of Feng Shui. This is an ancient tradition that arranges space according to environmental harmony. This is also seen as a form of spiritual discipline that is based on certain guidelines.
There are Feng Shui experts who now focus on interior design. They believe that the residents can benefit from the principles of Feng Shui when strictly followed. They believe that happiness, prosperity and success can also depend on the arrangement of the design elements.
Basic Feng Shui that you need to know include –
Emphasize Chinese Details
You could also opt for Chinese influences such as ornate pieces especially with your furniture. Have movable screens situated right where they can be mobile. Have conversation pieces such as golden horses or dragons displayed prominently.
Gold and red are big colors in Chinese interior design. See how much of these colors you can utilize to set up your Chinese-inspired theme.
Tags: Chinese design, Chinese interior design, Chinese style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Elemental Chinese Interior Design
Thursday, February 2nd, 2017
The clean lines of this American Leather Living Room Tristan-Sectional are the reasons why it fits perfectly in a Mid-century setting.
Baby boomers who were born in the late ‘50s are naturally drawn to the interior design of that time. But if you’re drawn towards cool, sleek, sophisticated, clean, colorful, curvy, functional and mod features, then you are similar to these people’s design preference. This style is known as the Mid-century design.
The term Mid-century design is a term that embraces the trends which influenced interior design and architecture in post-war America.
Modernism was a global movement that spanned five decades beginning in the ‘30s till the ‘70s. Mid-century modern, therefore, is linked to the period covering the ‘50s till the early ‘60s.
Mid-century Architecture
Experts agree that Frank Floyd Wright popularized this movement with regard to American architecture. Though this is the case, you shouldn’t discredit the contributions of artists such as LeCorbusier and Ludwig Mies van de Rohe.
Residential architecture in this style was famous among the suburbs during the ‘50s. It remained famous for the next decades, even up to today. Thanks to developers and architects who provided amazing examples of Mid-century modern homes across a lot of cities. These days, modern architecture is avant-garde with sustainable materials and finishes. The overall designs, though, are still hinged to their origins.
Mid-century modern architecture offers angular details, flat roofs as well as asymmetrical features. They also come with clean lines, expansive glass walls, and open floor layouts. Bi-level structures are also common with this design.
Flexsteel Living Room Round Coffee Table W1400-034
The Mid-century Appeal
The movement also approached the marriage of outside spaces to the indoors. This became extremely accepted on the West Coast. The best architects of our time built impressive, custom homes while also developing modern style houses for the masses.
California became the Mecca for Mid-century modern style. Renowned developer and builder, Joseph Eichler, and architect Richard Neutra immigrated to the U.S. and started building the geometric residences in Southern California. To this day, the design is quite popular in Palm Springs, San Diego, Beverly Hills and nearby areas.
A lot of homeowners are still looking for Mid-century modern units for a lot of good reasons. The reason for most is simple – a lot of homes are now mass-produced so they have a generic look and feel. Without a doubt, custom-made designs are being craved by many.
A lot of the real gems have already been bought, though. If you want to build from the ground up and bring back the look of Mid-century modern as if from a time capsule, then here are elements that you need to consider –
Use Wood. A lot of furniture these days is made of engineered, pressed wood. Instead of this option, use high quality furnishings with a Mid-century modern appeal. Masterpieces during that time come with clean lines and were made with walnut, teak, oak or rosewood.
Remodeling elements. If you want to bring back the marvels of Mid-century modern, then eliminate the walls. Embrace an open space concept with an airier setup. You can also hire someone to update the look of your fireplace. Have it turned to a floor-to-ceiling focal point.
Mirrors galore. You could also consider simpler accents such as a kitchen backsplash or a mirror. Fill your head with nostalgic ideas or you can get ideas here.
Redesign the Lights. Search for mid-century modern homes and see how dazzling lights make the difference. Pendant lighting is common just as they are functional and decorative. There are also artists who make their designs around architectural features of the home. Look for a piece that speaks to you and shows to the world who you really are. Remember, though, that you are setting up a mid-century modern home and not a contemporary one.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mid-century interior design, mid-century interiors, mid-century style
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Mid-Century Design Made Easy
Thursday, February 2nd, 2017
This Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture Dining Room Front Row Upholstered Sling Back Chair is also perfect in a contemporary home office setting.
Small businesses often have multiple uses for a conference room. It can be set up as a formal room for presentations, board and client meetings. For some, this is the room where brainstorming sessions are going to be held. There are simply some activities that are difficult to do in a normal office setting. Imagine team members getting together for their annual strategic planning. This calls for a more official setting.
Design Basics
You have to first determine the maximum capacity of the room. If you’re aiming to accommodate around 32 people, you will need a room that’s no less than 32 feet by 14 feet.
Have you ever attended a meeting room that’s cramped? Didn’t you feel claustrophobic which made it difficult to concentrate on what’s being discussed? You wouldn’t want that in your own conference room so make sure that you have ample room to accommodate everyone.
This room or space must not be just for seating but also for the attendees to be able to move around. There are times when it is more beneficial to break up the space for smaller groups.
Comfort should be another aspect that you will focus on. This is a crucial design element. The chairs must be cushioned so that attendees will still feel comfortable even during long meetings. Always think about back support and upholstery when choosing office chairs.
Business Image
You could have moments when you will welcome people outside of your business. If not, you could also hold videoconferences which will still show the general design of the conference room so be wary of your company image.
What image would you want to convey? If what you have is a small yet trendy company, then you could have a more modernistic approach complete with bold colors and unique pieces.
Use the more traditional and tasteful pieces if you want to play safe with your conference room design.
Conference Room Efficiency
Design your conference room so that the attendees don’t have to leave when they need to take care of other tasks that are connected to the meeting. Have data and telephone ports installed into that room. Make sure to have your design based on the number of printers, laptops and fax machine, too.
Have an audio/visual screen installed or you can opt for the portable type. Have erasable markers and whiteboards made available as well as other office equipment.
Conference Table Configuration
Your primary choice should be the standard boardroom type – this is the oval or rectangular table with chairs placed roundabout it. Variations include the V and U shapes. Other options include the classroom style and smaller rectangular types.
Amenities
Buffet tables can also be used as a surface for snack service. This piece of furniture will also be able to keep glassware and serving dishes which you can put away once they are no longer in use.
You can also place a small fridge in the room so there won’t be any need for someone to leave the room just to bring in the refreshments.
Videoconferencing Setup
It is also crucial to consider the lighting design for your conference room. This is especially true when you will use the room frequently for videoconferencing.
Have the room evenly lit in order to keep the shadows at a bare minimum. Avoid glare from the sunlight by having blinds installed. Check also that the area where the camera view will be set isn’t cluttered with potted plants, artwork or wall treatments.
It is also advisable that you place sound-bouncing surfaces that will not interfere with the quality of the videoconference.
Tags: conference room design, conference room furniture, conference room setup, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Furniture, Home Office Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Conference Room Design for Small Businesses
Wednesday, February 1st, 2017
The Hooker Furniture Bedroom Auberose Landscape Mirror completes this open space layout.
The mirror is an affordable accessory that one can buy for a home, office or any commercial shop. Interior decorators even claim that mirrors can complete the look of any room. These can come in standard sizes from any home décor store. There are ordinary mirrors, oversized ones, decorative and frame-less ones.
If you’re asking yourself if a mirror is important in a room, then the answer is a resounding yes. It also creates an illusion of space as well as increases the lighting inside any living space.
Streaky mirror – no matter how pretty its designs – remains an unclean mirror. Despite the number of times you spend cleaning it, streaks are unsightly, even frustrating. You might think that you already know how to clean a mirror or glass panes but as soon as you learn the secret techniques, you will realize how dirty your mirror has been.
Newspaper and Other Myths
For starters, newspapers don’t work. The inks that are being used nowadays leave unsightly residues. These generally make mirrors streaky. If you’ve been using newspaper and you still see unsatisfactory results, then now you know why.
It’s time to say goodbye to newspapers. Now, you might consider paper towels as alternatives – don’t. These leave flecks of lint that also don’t look great on your mirror. You will just end up wasting a good roll of paper towels.
What you need is a lint-free and non-streaking cloth that will help you clean mirrors and glasses in your home. You should also look for a designated glass cleaner. These are the ones that were made to be non-sudsing which means they won’t leave residues behind.
Further, what if there’s gunk on the mirrors? This will require prepping prior to the actual mirror cleaning.
Let’s Clean
So, if you want to clean your mirror like a pro, here are the things that you will need –
Microfiber cloth. This shouldn’t just be made with microfiber. Make sure that it comes with flat weave so that there won’t be any debris left. This kind of cloth also promotes faster drying and a lint-free finish.
Rubbing alcohol. Now this is the secret.
Cotton pads. These will be used with the rubbing alcohol.
Glass cleaner. Choose any brand that is manufactured especially for mirrors. You can also use vinegar and water though you can also search for recipes on the Internet.
Procedure
First, put some rubbing alcohol onto a cotton pad. Look for the goopy or glob buildups on mirrors. Think of toothpaste splatters and hairspray residues. Scan from top to bottom then rub them off.
Work quickly as rubbing alcohol tends to evaporate fast. This is pretty much like spot treating prior to doing the laundry.
Next, spray the mirror using the glass cleaner. Don’t soak it, though, just have it misted. You can then fold the microfiber cloth and begin working through the surface.
Begin at the top left corner then drag the microfiber cloth across the top then slowly swoop down then head back to the sides of the mirror. Think of zigzag motions till you get to the bottom of the mirror. Make sure that you do not miss an inch of the surface.
Just to make sure, check for scuff marks. Look at a 45-degree angle as this will shed some light on the mirror surface. This will illuminate the streaks which you won’t be able to see when you’re looking directly at the mirror.
Spot clean any stain that’s been left behind by the cloth. Quickly wipe away the streaks then be sure to buff dry using the dry side of the microfiber cloth.
That’s it, you’re done.
This entire process shouldn’t take more than 90 seconds for every mirror. This is an efficient way to clean mirrors in your home even after they have been subjected to the toughest dirt and stains.
Tags: how to clean mirror, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mirror, mirror cleaning, mirror cleanup, mirror maintenance, mirrors
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on How to Have Scum-Free Mirror
Wednesday, February 1st, 2017
The toss pillow is a wonderful accent to this neutral ensemble from FFDM Brentwood Collection.
Toss pillows, more commonly known as throw pillows, are small, decorative pillows that are often placed on armchairs, sofas, even on beds. There are also homeowners who place toss pillows on the floor. Outside of the U.S., these are referred to as mere cushions.
A toss pillow serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. They are usually accents that are used to emphasize the decorative elements and the overall theme of a room. Its function is to provide support for the neck and back.
A toss pillow can offer an instant update of the ambience or the style of a room. The great news is that you don’t even need to spend a lot just to update the look of your home. This is an effective and inexpensive way of accessorizing any living space.
Toss pillows offer primary characteristics such as their shape and fabric type. There is an endless array of toss pillow choices so you have to know what you really need.
Throw Pillow Shape and Size
Toss pillow size includes 16 to 18-inch squares. There are round and rectangular toss pillows as well as cylindrical ones that are referred to as bolsters.
A thing that you would consider as you decide the pillow type that’s right for the couch is the body size of the users. Will the pieces be used in a lounging area? The pillows must be able to provide back and neck support.
Will there be a lot of foot traffic there? With this, you should consider the couch scale. Bigger toss pillows look good on larger furniture that offers enough seating space. If the couch is more delicate, though, you need smaller toss pillows to dress it up. In the same manner, a small toss pillow will look out of place when placed on a roomy sofa.
The aesthetics of the room must also be considered when picking the toss pillow shape. Round pillows will surely soften the look of an eccentric couch. Square ones are best on cozy and puffy couches. Mix bolsters, round and square toss pillows if you really cannot decide which shape you would use.
Toss Pillow Materials
Toss pillows and other decorative cushions are sometimes made with just a single material. Other times, they come with a removable cover complete with foam inside. The foam could be filled with natural materials such as down and other feathers or with synthetics such as polyester.
Down and feathers are the softest materials that are used to make a toss pillow lush. They are also pricier compared to the synthetic types. The natural type is a great choice for people with allergies.
Synthetic fillers are a lot stiffer but they tend to hold their shape better. Synthetics also look less luxurious.
Removable covers offer a lot of advantages such as ease of cleaning and the capacity to change the look of the couch by simply replace the covers of the entire set of toss pillows.
Toss pillows and covers are also found in a wide array of textiles from basic materials such as polyester, cotton and cotton blends to more elegant fabrics like linen, velvet and silk. These have been seen as a popular medium for fashion designers and fabric artists.
Among the materials, cotton is a common choice. It is breathable, comfortable and can be easily machine washed. It can shrink, though, especially when it’s dried too much.
Linen is crisp, cool and fresh. It is expensive but it is easily washable and it becomes softer with frequent washing.
Satin, on the other hand, has high luster and has a luxurious feel. They tend to be slippery so don’t expect them to stay on the couch. Silk is also smooth and has a soft texture. This is a strong fabric though it is vulnerable to static cling.
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Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on What Are Toss Pillows?
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