- Follow us:
Thursday, September 15th, 2016
Safari is a term derived from a Swahili word meaning to travel, though the Arabic term safara means a journey. Its implication is that of a game that needs to be hunted, shot and eventually dragged by tribesmen. It was President Theodore ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt who popularized this concept when he had it brought to the U.S.
Basically, safari had a negative connotation to it.
The Safari Evolution
These days, the modern world has completely changed the meaning of this once negative term. It is now being associated to being socially and environmentally responsible when it comes to traveling.
Safari travel in Africa is now a journey that includes game viewing and spending time in national parks. Safari will always involve wildlife and birds, more so their sanctuaries, so you won’t conjure thoughts of bloodshed anymore when this term is mentioned.
Adding Some Jungle Love
The Safari style is all about adding a little jungle love into your home. Man caves and lady pads can also exhibit this beautiful design. It is commonly used to create the wonderful illusion of being in tropical grandeur. All you need to add are some tribal music CDs and you’re good. If you want to raise the temperature up some more, then amp up the African décor.
Using the safari theme is not easy. You are required to plan and to invest in a lot of mirrors. There are also materials that are uniquely safari such as –
Bamboo – this is mainly used in the bedroom where the ultimate jungle should be. There are various styles of bamboo beds that are suitable for this very purpose. Match this bed frame with a bureau and a dresser plus a steamer trunk right at the foot of the bamboo bed and you’re having an awesome start.
Goin’ ape? Add bamboo curtains complete with bamboo slats. Vertical blinds will also offer the same touch.
Authentic African hangings – your jungle room should have the genuine deal. Have some masks and other African wall hangings that will ascertain your theme. There is no mistaking that yours is an African theme if you add wildlife wall murals, banana trees, or some interesting (if not scary) masks.
An Exotic Bird – if you want to commit to this theme then you might as well go all out. How about having a pet macaw or parrot? Just make sure that you research about the feeding and proper care of any of these exotic birds. Don’t make the mistake of cramping your new pet into a small cage. Buy a cage that is large enough for the bird to flit around in.
Your guests will surely be awestruck with the beautiful bird; just be prepared to handle a little bird noise. Plus, it might help if you talk to your landlord first and ask about any animal restrictions in your area.
Greenery – no African theme is deemed successful without any plant. Bring in some potted plants but make sure that you keep them well-lit, fed and watered. Palm trees are a great choice and so are a couple of banana trees.
African Accents – you would want to convince everyone about your theme so invest in some bamboo lampshades, too. If you can have an elephant, gorilla or lion standee, then use it. Any of them are great conversation starters which will make you an interesting social being in the sight of your friends and visitors.
Cap the African theme by covering an entire wall with a map (of Africa if needs be). If you are bringing friends over, you could don your khaki pants and boots, grab a pair of binoculars and you’re all set.
Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Floor Lamp 1851-515 screams “Africa” on every angle.
Tags: African, African design, African interior design, African interiors, African theme, eclectic, eclectic interior design, eclectic interiors, eclectic Safari theme, eclecticism, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Safari design, Safari interior design, Safari style, Safari theme, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 17th, 2016
Century Furniture Bedroom Turkish Peak Uph Headboard – King 88-006K
Morocco has always been a place of luxury and romance. Located in Northern Africa, this is a country that is culturally diverse because its coastline lies on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Moroccan interior design reflects this very diversity and rich history. It showcases arched doorways, beautiful ornate carvings and the brightest, flowing fabrics, it has easily become one of the most renowned styles throughout the world.
Moorish architecture can be seen all over the world but it is especially rich in the Arab regions in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. The features of this kind of architecture include domes, arches, deco tiles, and courtyards.
Exotic Moroccan Interior Design
Moroccan interior design is both exotic and luxurious. Adding Moroccan architectural details and furniture to the rooms in your home will create a fabulous appeal. Add some Moroccan decor and you have achieved a style that is like none other.
Find jewel-tone fabrics that can hang loosely over the walls or on your plush sofa. Highlight the beauty and colors of these fabrics by using lamps and sconces. Check out our beautiful array of fabrics here at McCreery’s Home Furnishings.
Create interesting shadows with the help of wall sconces. Highlight also those handcrafted pieces of glass that you already own.
What’s unique about Moroccan interior design is that it includes decorative patterns and ethnic motifs, all coming from different cultures.
Fine Furniture Design Living Room Beautiful Friendship Moroccan Console 1426-942
Moroccan architectural details include wooden arches and carved doorways. Look for Islamic designs, bright wall tiles, and colorful wall decor. These are the most recognizable elements of the Moroccan style.
Shop for mosaic tiles complete with hand-painted ornaments. These are the best adornment for your floor, walls and kitchen backsplash, even the countertops.
As to the wooden furniture for your bedroom, look for carved headboards. Tables should be intricate and large floor cushions should be used. Decorate with metal lamps, vases, wooden furniture and elaborately-designed tableware.
Add some serving trays, framed mirrors, and some chic decor.
When it comes to kitchen and bathroom fixtures, be sure to look for brass and copper stuff. Bring the most luxurious materials in. Stunning craftsmanship is the best for Moroccan living spaces. Both modern and antique decor can add a mysterious touch to your Moroccan interiors.
Speaking of luxury, you should have touches of gold or yellow with silver ornaments. Complete the look with purple shades, embroidered pillows, Moroccan textiles, geometric carpets, and canopies. All these can create a feeling of peace and harmony in your home.
Moroccan interior design is also about highlighting the beauty of courtyards.
No courtyard in your home? Then there’s no problem. This should not stop you from using Moroccan elements outdoors, though. Adorn the outdoor space with water features, some fragrant flowers, some pottery, hanging lanterns and a low bench.
Combining Moroccan Interior Design with Other Styles
There are some homes that already come with rich Moroccan details. If you happen to have such a home, then you can add some other simple designs to balance the intricacy of Moroccan style. Scandinavian interior design, in its simplicity, can be used together with this complex style.
Find the horseshoe arches characterized by the huge, round arch atop a straight and narrow doorway. These Moorish arches – also known as keyhole arches – can stand on their own; in fact, they can be a wonderful focal point in your home.
Add details through less permanent paint finishes. Begin by taping off your chosen design on a wall, canvas or bookshelf then pain over with your choice of color.
You can also go rustic by adding a traditional rug, colorful bedding, saddles and blankets. Focus on geometric designs and colorful palettes.
Tags: African, African design, African theme, designing with wood, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Moroccan, Moroccan interior design, Moroccan interiors, Moroccan style, rustic, rustic charm, rustic elements, rustic interior design, rustic interiors, wood, wooden elements, wooden materials
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Tuesday, January 26th, 2016
ITALIAN RENAISSANCE. Hooker Furniture Home Office European Renaissance II 39.5 Lateral File 374-10-466.
Renaissance style came into existence because of the emergence of architecture and art in ancient Rome. Though people think of the greatness of Rome when it comes to the beauty of this style, it goes without saying that it was truly born in Italy during the 14th century.
English designers embraced the motifs that they read in Renaissance books. Artisans who were in London were also influenced by this style.
Grotesque, Moresque, Myths, etc.
Grotesque is a kind of decor which has its foundations in Ancient Rome’s wall paintings. In the 15th century, many of these works of art were discovered; they featured scrolling plants, mystical creatures, figures, vases and masks.
Strapwork, on the other hand, is like the leather strips. These are daring shapes that come in three dimensions. English designs, especially during the 16th century, are laden with this style. This style is especially useful in framing motifs and architectural forms.
Moresque, on the other hand, is called such because of its link to the North African and Spanish Moors. If you see those interwoven leaves, stems or tendril patterns, then you have a pretty good idea of what moresque is.
Romans and Greeks are known for their busts. The Renaissance style is also quite popular with what’s known as the roundrel. This is a decorative motif which originated from the Roman coins.
This Universal Furniture Dining Room Double Pedestal Table 409658-C spells royalty.
But what are Greeks and Romans without their myths? The Renaissance culture in England spurred a revitalized interest in classical mythology. Paintings and prints featured these mythical characters as the motifs.
The beauty of the Renaissance style does not end with the Romans. When Henry VIII became king, he inspired the rest of Europe as he became a patron of the arts. People marvelled at his court and the many luxurious objects in his kingdom. It was because of his love for the arts why he also commissioned foreign artists to design more than 50 of his royal palaces. The beauty and splendour of his court proved just how powerful and intimidating looks can be.
One of Henry’s favorite palaces is the Hampton Court Palace located in Surrey. He did not spare any expense in developing this traditional style palace. The ornaments that were used here are indicative o the strong influence of the Renaissance. This building’s Great Hall still stands today.
Going back to its home, Renaissance style was further developed with the help of Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio. Serlio published a series of books discussing architecture and the Renaissance. Buildings of antiquity were recorded in those books, thus, promoting classical style for both the interior and exterior features.
Fireplaces and ceilings became canvasses of sorts to many patterns, textures and works of art.
Hooker Furniture Home Office European Renaissance II Double Bookcase with ladder & rail 374 10 225. Learning was also a huge part of the Renaissance so to depict this on your style, take home this bookcase and start displaying your most treasured books.
Styles that are related to the Renaissance is the Neo classical style. It was during the 16th century that books containing decorative motifs offered inspiration to many British designers and artists. The Classical as well as Renaissance Revival during the 19th century became quite popular as archaeological discoveries were being made in Greece and Italy.
Renaissance and Your Home
You do not need to have a degree in interior design just to use this classic style in your home. Do not feel intimidated. Just remember as you start putting the elements together that the chairs, tables, cabinets and drawers have to be ornate, luxurious yet still comfortable. Choose oak, Remember to overlay but not overdo. Say yes to a lot of brocades, candelabra, tapestries, Oriental rugs, embroidered items, and velvet.
There is still a huge difference between mess and a concoction of different arts, elaborate walls, decorative pieces and the most inspiring furniture so take it easy in designing a Renaissance-inspired home.
Tags: African, art, artwork, classic, classic design, classic interior design, classic interiors, classical design, classicism, displaying works of art, fireplace, Grotesque, history, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Moresque, patterns, Renaissance, Renaissance design, Renaissance interior design, Renaissance Revival, Renaissance style, Spanish, textures, timeless, timeless design, timeless interior design, timeless interiors, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Tuesday, January 12th, 2016
5682-10 Sloan Chair without Nails and 5682-08 Sloan Ottoman without Nails in Fabric 917-60. This chair shows that Bohemian is all about vibrant colors.
Bohemian interior design involves the infusion of hippies, travelers, even gypsies. These are the very people who are out to have fun. They also live the most colorful lives as is evident in their style and their homes.
The bohemian interiors are lived spaces. There is nothing drab about this style as it is colorful, full of ornaments, exclusive, and electrifying. Bohemian accessories should be able to showcase a special appearance. The decor is not just amazing to look at in bedrooms and living rooms but also in other areas of your home like your kitchen, even the bathroom.
The Mingling of Creativity and Art
The bohemian style is exclusive because it displays the effects of art and creativity. It can lift a boring facade without you putting too much energy. Just hunt for the right furniture pieces (and colors) that are most suitable for this design.
Step number one is to pick the right color scheme for your home. Whatever hue you settle with, make sure that it has the capacity to deliver a harmonious effect on the walls, floor, accessories and the furniture.
This Hooker Furniture Home Office Accent Desk is what you need for your Bohemian home work space.
There are a few more daring interior designers who choose bold and dark colors for the bohemian look. There are actually a lot of options on your color palette. Combine different colors till you reach a blend that you like. Some of the more interesting hues include rust, brick red, sunny yellow, deep brown, plum, violet, gold, burnt orange, magenta, emerald and camel.
There are also a few color schemes that you should avoid for this design. Colors such as pastel, neon and those shimmering shades (‘cept gold) should be avoided like the plague.
Now for the furniture, you can choose to combine different kinds of furniture to make a room more exciting. A leather sofa would be perfect for your bohemian living room. As for the seating area, be sure to deliver a non-cluttered impression.
This very bohemian rug is the Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Biltmore Select Bidjar Rug 1773RS02000300450.
The decorative appeal of this interior style lies heavily on the accessories that you will be bringing in. Choose unique accessories such as artwork coming from Africa, India, and the Middle East. Enhancing the flavor of your bohemian style is as easy as adding an eclectic taste. It wouldn’t be wrong to display accessories that have been inspired by Boho arts including tea seats, musical instrument, easels of vintage artists, some hookah pipes, too.
When it comes to bohemian colors, the most used are warm earthy colors as are metallic hues. So think of gold, terracotta, brown and other hues belonging to this family. Look for jewel tones such as fiery orange, purple, or electric blue. Always think warm when looking for the right bohemian color. White should never be a part of this design.
Bohemian is for people who want their homes to look vibrant, filled with culture and the most appealing pieces. It flees in the presence of modernism but it embraces what’s carefree, unusual and relaxed. Fuse lots of patterns and experiment with the loudest colors. Layer those throws on your sofa, use colorful area rugs, and hang never-before-seen tapestries.
Bohemian means you learn to mix and match. Find natural materials such as sisal, burlap then fuse them with chenille and silk. These materials should look slightly worn. Pillows, lampshades and curtains could have fringe.
Tags: African, art, bohemian, Bohemian art, bohemian interiors, bohemian style, guidelines, harmony, hippie, Indian, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mixing and matching furniture, mixing colors, mixing designs, mixing style, Moroccan, Moroccan interior design, Moroccan interiors, Moroccan style, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Follow us on our social media
© McCreery's Home Furnishings | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy
