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Friday, August 24th, 2018
The linear candelabra paired just right with the beauty of these Humphrey Bogart dining room collection.
That pair of candlesticks that has multiple arms is what’s referred to as candelabrum (with the plural form of candelabra, although, it has become acceptable to call it as candelabra as a singular thing with candelabras as its plural form).
Candelabrum refers to candle-tree. This is a Latin word that was so-named because of its arms or branches. The candelabrum became a need before the advent of electrical light. At the time, it was imperative to have more than one candle in a room in order to brighten up space especially when the homeowners needed to do some reading or writing during the evening.
Originally, the candelabrum comes with one supporting column that holds 2-4 branches or arms. The arms could be removed as desired and the column was then just able to hold one candlestick.
Many homes used the candelabra and displayed them prominently in their homes. To some, these even became a status symbol of sorts. With greater illumination provided by this one element, it became apparent for craftsmen to stylize it.
The candelabrum became even more popular in the 1800s when silver was already used as the leading material in creating this lovely lighting piece. By that time, the candelabra have all become a substantial part of homes’ décor especially in the dining room and the living room. With seated guests all around, the candelabra allowed for people to have conversations when there used to be just darkness.
While candles have been around since 3000 BC, the display of light has become sort of a necessity. In 400 BC, there has been evidence of clay candelabra. Today, these can be practically made from any material including gold, silver, copper, brass, crystal, and iron.
The use of the candelabrum as a lighting piece died in the 1870s when the light bulb was already invented. By then, it has just become a decorative piece, one that evoked romance and intimacy.
Candelabra Types
The arms of the candelabra made the huge difference on how each piece would look. There are those that have as many as eight arms and even the grander ones that display a lot more than this. The more elaborate candelabra are now typically found in museums.
The ones that have more arms have been given wider bases in order to support the more numerous branches. The styles and types of the candelabra were different based on the era when they were created. So, for instance, if the prevailing fashion for dining at a certain time was silver, then the candelabra were patterned to these pieces.
As years passed, the designs became more refined and as the modern and contemporary eras came, the look of these lighting pieces also changed with the times. Going back to the simplistic design of the George I candelabra which was linear and angular, it was highly contrasted by the George II style which had a lot of embellishments and decorative parts.
This constant evolution paved the way for finer pieces being produced in the latter years. Probably the most renowned candelabrum is the Menorah which has seven branches. This is a symbol of Jewish faith and, in fact, is so old that it was even mentioned in the Bible.
Candelabra are now considered synonymous with opulence. Buyers should just know how to invest in the best ones and to maintain them so that they can last for many years.
The Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Rudra Antiqued Silver Candelabra 18909 has a modern flair that sits just right in a modern home.
Candelabra: Damage Prevention
Of course, you should be careful with the types of candles that you would use. To prevent stains and drips, use quality, non-petroleum based ones.
As soon as the drips harden, be sure to remove them as fresh wax is more pliable. Wear gloves as you touch the candelabrum.
Never use water to clean the candelabra.
Tags: candelabra, candelabrum, cleaning the candelabra, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | Comments Off on The Candelabra: Creating An Intimate Setting
Thursday, May 18th, 2017
Featured furnishings are from FFDM’s Fusion Collection
The three-arm candelabra consists of a single stick with a stem that’s trumpet-shaped. This comes on an oval base with eight lobes. This holds the double-branch inset complete with spiraling arms and a socket at the center. It also has a bell-domed cover. This cover has a shell and flame finial. These are the basic descriptions of a lovely candelabrum.
The History of Candelabra
The candelabrum and candlestick both have an interesting history to offer. They date all the way back from the 17th century. Candelabra then were made of silver sheets and had hollow stems. Practically speaking, the earliest versions were quite flimsy which made them quite fragile.
Die-stamping as well as industrial manufacturing methods beginning in 1760s paved the way to the quality candelabra which we know today. These Georgian and Victorian candelabra were carefully made by Birmingham and Sheffield silversmiths.
A huge bulk of the antique silver candlestick designs all follow the fundamental principles. These are the flat base, thin nozzle and column. There were very few variations in construction.
The candlestick’s value is hugely determined by the quality as well as the aesthetics of their designs. The candlesticks from before 1760 can actually still be found in a wonderful condition. There are some signs of aging but, overall, they are still usable.
Candelabra are rarer than the candlesticks especially when you are searching for the 18th century pieces. Most candelabra were made during the 19th century before electricity was invented.
These days, talented craftsmen dedicate their skills to the preservation of the traditional construction of the antique candelabrum design. The silver candelabrum can hold about two to six sockets. The arms are ornate but are also removable. This makes cleanup and maintenance a lot easier. The central stem often features a flame-shaped finial that is used as extinguisher.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Urn Candelabra 1653-754
The Elegance of a Candelabrum
Adding a touch of elegance to your home or even to any social event is as easy as using a crystal candelabrum centerpiece. With this piece, you can add visual interest in a room especially during wedding receptions, a dinner party or any other festive affair.
Enhance the sparkling crystals using colors innovative designs and textures.
Taper candles look beautiful when inserted into the crystal candelabrum holders. Find a colored candle that will enhance the color of your dining table. Choose also a style that will easily blend with the theme that you have chosen for your celebration. If a neutral hue is more like you, then just use ivory or white tapers to complement the rest of the décor.
As if the candelabrum isn’t already chic, you can still up the level of sophistication by draping long strands of clear or colored glass beads on the candelabrum arms. These beads will also add shimmer to your sparkling table centerpiece.
You can also use a wire flower garland all around the crystal candelabra base. This should soften the look of the lighting piece while providing a more natural element. Use florist wire cutters in snipping the garland. Add hot glue right between the garland and the crystal base. Be sure to secure the flowers in place.
Pick a flower type that will help set the tone of the special event. Roses, of course, highlight the romantic venue while holly berries look great during a holiday celebration. Use the candelabrum as a vase of sorts, a piece that will hold the flowers while candles are burning brightly above the floral arrangement.
You can also scatter flower petals right at the base of the candelabra. Place some small glass holders with tea lights to complete the look.
Tags: candelabra, candelabrum, designing candelabra, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Candelabra: A Rich History and A Bright Future
Tuesday, October 18th, 2016
FFDM’s Sunset Canyon Collection shows the beautiful color of the fall season in this wood ensemble.
Fall is definitely here. This only means that it’s time to look into pumpkin décor, spice lattes and wonderfully warm meals. So bring out the crockpot and your designing skills (okay maybe not in that order) because it’s time to transition the look of your home.
Your home is the perfect spot to decorate using fall elements. Decorating for this season means you have to embrace warm, beautiful colors, coziness and all that these bring, without forgetting to have fun in the process.
Here are some ways that you can start fall design –
Say Goodbye to Summer Bedding
One of the quickest ways to say hello to fall is to say goodbye to the previous season. Find something warmer for your bed; look for warmer colors and warmer elements. Think of comforters, duvets, colorful pillows and blankets.
Add some rugs, romantic lighting and homey décor.
Don’t worry about making your room too dark. Use window treatments to offset the artwork, furniture and lamps that you bring in. This is also that perfect moment to paint your bedroom with a more subdued coat of paint. You will be spending more time indoors so consider painting your home with the colors that you are most comfortable with.
Beautify the Windows
It’s time to spruce up your windows especially if you want to achieve fall vibes. Use curtain walls, embellishments and drapes. Sheer can be used as an overlay. Hanging curtains crosswise can also add a different level of visual interest.
The market is filled with curtains and other window embellishments. See which ones would suit your fall design. Be mindful of the materials, color and their functions. Find warm hues like ones that mimic nature. Look for fabrics that will make the room feel homier.
Add Candles and Warm Lighting
This is the perfect season to use a lot of candles. These can become decorative elements that have the capacity to make any space look cozier. If you are a DIY enthusiast, then this is the chance to get your family together and create your own string lights and candles.
Candles are also effective mood lights. These can effortlessly improve the ambience in your home. They can also smell nice – which is like hitting two birds with one stone.
The Uttermost Dining Room Mara Fireplace Screen Candleholder 20179 is the perfect element that would cap your focal point for the living room this spring.
Extra Blankets, Pillows and Throws
Since this is the perfect time to get cozy, it’s time to check out some local shops for pillows, throws and blankets. These are your best decorative elements for this season apart from the pumpkins, wreaths, dried fruits, and other festive crafts.
Sweet-Smelling All Around
What could be more wonderful than to come home in a place that’s sweet-smelling with breads, spices and crockpot meals. Add to the holiday euphoria by putting some essential oils inside the living room, bedroom, bathroom, and just about every room in your home. Lavender is one great option to begin with. It is not just a sweet-smelling scent, it is also antiseptic and has antibacterial properties.
Yes to Area Rugs
An area rug is also an essential décor that can be added to up the level of coziness this season. It does not have to be costly or fancy. Just invest in a few rugs that can add color and comfort where they’re needed.
An area rug can also effectively warm your feet during those extra cold mornings.
Alter the Landscape
This is also the season to cozy up your backyard and patio. It’s time to swap the bright lights and water elements with festive décor and candles. Add some lovely scents, potted plants, beautiful flowers, and shrubberies.
Clay artwork as well as bright pillows may also be used to improve the outdoors during fall.
Tags: candelabra, candelabrum, decorating with candles, designing for fall, fall decor, fall design, fall interior design, fall interiors, fall preparation, holiday lighting, home lighting, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, warm colors, warm hues
Posted in Color Schemes, Fall Season, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Wednesday, June 15th, 2016
You have got to love how the candles jived with these American Cherry FFDM pieces.
There are many ways to decorate a room, don’t you agree? But of all the decorative elements, there is one that is a favorite by those who want to achieve elegance, drama, or a romantic mood – candles. Candles can tickle the senses in ways that are difficult to explain. Gone are those days when they were just used to illuminate homes. These days, they are very much a part of the decorative charm in dwelling places.
Are you ready to begin decorating with candles?
Gorgeous Décor
It makes sense to take note of every little detail in the room where you would be putting the candles. Whether there is wall art, a vintage trinket somewhere or large furniture at the center of the room, consider how you would be placing the candles and what sort you should be displaying in the first place.
Candles can bring in that needed prettiness. There are even designers who choose to decorate with candles more than any other accessory.
Candles also come with sweet scents these days when they are lit. So imagine smelling that sweet aroma while you have fun with your friends, while making dinner or just watching TV with your loved ones.
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Ronana Mirrored Wall Sconce 07693: Who says candles have to have actual flames every time?
Where to Place Lovely Candles
Now let’s talk about decorating your space with beautiful candles. You can begin with your bookshelves. Candles are your go-to decorative pieces when it comes to emphasizing book collections. Insert a candle or two at the end of a stack of books (just like you would a regular bookend). You can also simply place the candles on top of a stack.
See if you could tie the color of the candles with the books.
They can also serve as the perfect centerpiece to your coffee table. Coffee tables should not only be functional but also stylish. It would be more relaxing to spend your time in the living room if the coffee table displays, say, aromatic candles in lavender scent.
Use a tray to hold the candles before you place them on an equally decorative coffee table. Add fresh flowers, a coffee table book or two, plus some other trinkets. The candles plus these other bursts of color on the tray will also add a bit of height to the table.
Imagine cuddling with your loved one as you both drink a glass of wine as you wind down during the evening. Those lit candles will surely bring a romantic flair without even trying too hard.
Now don’t think that the coffee table is the only table that can house your candles. The dining table can do this exact same thing. Candles can be the most sophisticated centerpiece for your dinner parties. Simply arrange some candles at the center of the table while the lovely china and silverware are placed directly in front of each chair.
The home office desk could also become your candles’ home. Believe it or not, these sources of illumination could add a dose of inspiration. You can place a gold tray to hold the candles at the side of your desk or you can just have them placed at different sections of the desk. Add your favorite song playlist and you will definitely become more productive.
What about the staircase? Oh, that would be a lovely place to put your glass candleholders on.
Votive candles can also be anchored in pebbles or sand. Those wineglasses can also be turned upside-down and voila, they become unique candleholders.
Candle Vessels
Fall in love with candles some more as you put them in different reusable holders. Make sure to find the holders that are fire retardant, preferably unbreakable, and are also easy to clean.
Don’t be afraid to introduce different textures of candles and candleholders. Find a resting spot that will highlight the candles’ beauty without overpowering other design elements inside the home.
Tags: candelabra, candelabrum, decorating with candles, decorating with scented candles, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, scented candle, scented candle decorating
Posted in Accents, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | No Comments »
Monday, April 11th, 2016
The potted flowering plant plus the curves on some of the accessories softened the linear look of the bed. Featured bedroom set is from FFDM’s Vintage Classics.
The bedroom of a young woman is supposed to be cheerful and fresh. This is a room that should reflect her age, even her character. It would be wrong to make it look like an elderly woman’s dwelling but it shouldn’t look like a little girl’s room, too.
This only means that a balance should be achieved between these ages as adolescence is pretty much a delicate phase.
The young lady’s bedroom should be a place for retreat or relaxation. It should have the right fusion of freshness and femininity. There should also be zero clutter or else, the mood and overall female vibe would be ruined.
Always Begin with the Color
Let’s begin with the room color. What you should choose should be a vibrant color. Now you know why most young women’s bedrooms come with lavender, pink or pastel colors. These have a certain princess-ey or fairy-like feel.
Still, there are young women who prefer a more intense color. You could level from a pink to fuchsia or from lime green to bottle green.
Generally, the safest choice is soft pink. Red, blue, green and purple come in next. These can up the drama a bit. You can also integrate dashes of black or white.
It’s Always Downhill Once the Theme’s Chosen
Stylizing a young woman’s room is always personal which is why having a direction is critical.
With a specific style in mind now, it’s time to make the dream into a reality. Look at the walls, furniture, accessories and window treatments.
Should you aim for a contemporary appeal? Should it be shabby chic? It’s up to the young woman to decide. If you are a parent who is there to support your young one’s decision, then see to it that she’s also making the correct choices.
The theme is often modern but not all young women have this taste. Go through magazines and books on interior design that could give you an idea on what theme to work with.
The bedroom shouldn’t just be colorful, it should also be airy. The bigger the surface area that you need to work on, the smaller the furniture that you need to bring in; there’s also a need to solve the issue on storage through an investment on open shelves, multi-functional drawers, chests, and cabinets.
For the rest of the decor, all these depend on the young woman’s personality. For instance, you could buy – especially for this project – contemporary wall arts, wall accessories, vases, posters, and such.
As for the furnishings, be sure to add pieces that soften the overall appeal of the room. Do not forget about comfort as you invest in a bed and seating. If you elect to have linear pieces, then be sure to have vases filled with fresh flowers brought in.
Consider also the curtains, draperies, and the rest of the beddings. These should fuse correctly through coordination. The wall color must not clash with these fabrics.
See if low lamps, candelabra and aromatherapy oil burners can also be brought in. The candleholders should be made of crystal and not the metallic type as this would make the room look older. An elegant chandelier is an effortless way to make the room feel more ladylike.
These accessories have the power to pull everything together yet take it easy for you could also go overboard just as easily. Too many accessories will result in clutter and a chaotic feel – the very things that you would never expect in a young woman’s boudoir.
Now wasn’t that easy? Setting up a young woman’s bedroom has never been this easy and fun before.
Tags: bedroom colors, bedroom essentials, bedroom for girls, cabinet, candelabra, chest of drawers, color choices, drawers, girls' bedroom, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, young girls' bedroom, youth bedroom
Posted in Bedroom Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
Fine Furniture Design Bedroom Metal Canopy Bed, Queen 5.0 1349-250 251 252 253
Couples and lovers all over the world look forward to celebrating Valentine’s Day every year. This holiday was named to honor two Christian martyrs but eventually became connected to love and romance. These days, it is celebrated all over the world thanks to marketing efforts of entrepreneurial folks.
Romantic Bedroom for a Romantic Holiday
The bedroom is a special place where intimacies are exchanged. Surprise your loved one by dressing up this part of your home. Here are some guidelines on how you can make this room a tad more special during Valentine’s Day –
Maitland-Smith Accessories Iron Fire Screen 1351-381
Use dimmers to induce more feelings of romance. Remember that bright light drives away romantic feelings while dimmed lighting induces passionate moments.
A fireplace, of course!
Another surefire way of bringing romance to any bedroom is to have a fireplace there. The dancing flames are sure to evoke romantic feelings as you spend that special night with your special someone.
Thomasville Bedroom Gallina Ensemble Set (Super Queen) TV-BD1-21.
Another accessory that you should consider installing is a beautiful set of window curtains. Find the plush, dark and alluring ones. Make sure that lights coming from the street won’t reach the bedroom as these will distract your special moment.
Flowing curtains and draperies can catch the wind and add a romantic appeal to the bedroom.
Picking the color of the bedding is crucial in making your Valentine’s night a special one. You might do everything right but if you fail on the color, then all your efforts won’t matter anymore.
Red would be overdoing the Valentine’s theme so you might as well pick from all these other romantic colors – bronze, pearl or gold. Other popular colors are blue, green, black and white.
If silk and satin aren’t doable, then you can always go for sateen. Sateen sheets are also luxurious and cozy. Find an interesting texture for your bedding. Velvet, faux fur and velour are all soft fabrics that are used in blankets, comforters and throw pillows.
‘Want animal print bedding? Then go ahead and purchase one. This kind of pattern will look great when highlighted by a lovely chandelier.
The Romantic Bed
What could be more romantic than a bed with canopy? This added feature will make the bedroom appear more spacious. You can never go wrong with a wooden bed. Whether you opt for softwood or hardwood, that’s really up to you; each one offers a beauty that other materials will have difficulty matching.
To cap the set up of your romantic bedroom, make sure that you play some soft music as your loved one arrives. Add potpourri, chocolate, and champagne and you’re in for a night that’s worth remembering.
Tags: bed, bedroom mirror, candelabra, candelabrum, fireplace, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mirror, romantic bedroom, romantic setting, romantic setup, Valentine's Day
Posted in Bedroom Design | No Comments »
Friday, January 29th, 2016
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Esher Twig Candelabra 19866
Have you ever wondered why most homes that hang chandeliers and decorate with candelabras are viewed as sophisticated? You may not have a family member that knows how to craft candelabra with his bare hands but there are a lot of skilled artisans who now put their works in the market.
Candelabras are candle holders which can support two or more of these lighting pieces. Most of these are now decorative in nature, with the artist carefully placing an awesome display. A single candle holder is known as a candelabrum.
The word candelabra comes from the Latin word for candlestick. People have been using candles for many, many years for lighting purposes. Even in the ancient times, people have paired these candles with candelabra.
In the beginning, candelabra were utilized to increase of the amount of light in a room. In the next centuries, however, their role when it comes to enhancing the ambience slowly became apparent. Pretty soon, churches, social gatherings and stages were already using them.
Candelabra are now equal to glamour, chic, stylish and romance. Place one in any room and in an understated manner and you will find more and more guests marveling at their beauty.
Candelabra can also be used during weddings. Just position some by the entrance hall or right on the guests’ tables. These can serve as stylish center pieces. Also, during Christmas, ornately designed candelabra can be placed atop festive tables.
The dining table can be enhanced with lovely candelabra. Nothing can be more dramatic than this central piece. Think of a special occasion that you attended wherein you noticed how the house glowed with warmth and the homeowner probably set up a number of candelabras for guests to appreciate.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Urn Candelabra 1653-754
Which Candelabra Should You Buy?
First, consider what you are going to use them for. Are they going to be added as decor? Or will they be used to light a room?
You must also consider the kind of material and the style that your candelabra will have. Of course, it is paramount that you consider your preference.
Candelabra Types
Various candelabra in high quality are now available in our shop. The most common designs that you can look for are – the fountain dropper, crystal droplets, hanging candelabra, glass tea light, standing, and cake candelabra.
The fountain dropper is decorative as it comes with pearl beads or crystals. These gems are attached to the branches with each flowing to the base.
Crystal droplets come in different sizes. There are smaller versions in sparkling dots or the bigger types with diamond-like gems. These effectively catch the light and can magnify the glimmer of candles.
The hanging type is great to use outdoors. Those who choose to bring it indoors should make sure that it is paired with exposed beams or ceilings. The glass tea light candle holder is made to hold many small tea candles also known as votives. It can offer a vintage appeal and is best used in shabby chic settings.
Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Kara, Candelabra 19395
The standing candelabra have a huge impact in any setting because of their sheer size. Often used in pairs, they offer subtle symmetry as well as balance in any environment.
Lastly, the cake candelabra are placed atop iced cakes to hold birthday candles. These are novelty items that are charming and impressive.
Candelabra Care
Just like any candle holder, you need to regularly clean the candelabra. First, never leave them unattended when the candles are already lit. Standing candelabra can be anchored to the floor but for all others, you have to find a way to make them more stable.
Find a specialist cleaning agent to remove wax. Always use protective gloves when handling hot candelabra.
Tags: accent lighting, ambient light, ambient lighting, candelabra, candelabrum, decor, dining room light, home lighting, improving home lighting, interior lighting, light, lighting fixture, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, room accents, tips, types of lighting
Posted in Accents, Decorative Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »
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