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Thursday, July 27th, 2017

Hooker Furniture Home Office Transcend Bookcase is the perfect example of rectilinear, functional furnishing.
We all live in a modern world. People see contemporary movements in almost every aspect of their daily lives – from fashion, architecture, technology, cars, even the world of interior design. Don’t be confused with the terms contemporary and modern, these are two totally different terms. Modern refers to anything from the 1920s till the 1950s.
Contemporary is anything beyond that though there are designers who look at the ‘70s as the starting line for this type of design. If you want to embrace a contemporary interior design, here are some guidelines –
Openness
Contemporary design, in essence, looks upon some of the major elements of modern design. First, it tends to apply the open space layout. It also nods on wide, open windows as well as high ceilings. As opposed to modern design, though, contemporary elements are focused on the use of natural elements.
Contemporary design is all about airiness. It embraces this aspect of design so that the interiors feel more relaxed rather than stiff.
Broader Hue Options
The color spectrum for contemporary design elements are a lot broader compared to modern design. Black and white is a famous fusion that is commonly used in many modern spaces. To depart from this default modern look, contemporary spaces could use bold patchworks.
Appropriate colors that you can use in your contemporary home are cream, white, brown, grays and beige, which are all neutral tones. Use an accent that is bold enough to counter these neutrals, just make sure that balance is still achieved in the process.
As for the walls, it would also be great to experiment with that. Striped wallpapers are a wonderful idea.
Wooden Floors No Less
Contemporary flooring always has to be wooden. But if you are looking for an excellent substitute, then you can turn to laminates, stone, porcelain, ceramic or cement. Occasional rugs or full carpeting would also make sense in this environment. The colors that you use would have to be neutral or patterned, though.
If you’re still uncertain about what material to use to cover your floor, then just go bare.
Specific Window Treatments
While lighting – especially natural lighting – is crucial in setting up a contemporary setting, there are moments when the light just has to fade or covered. Window treatments for contemporary homes are not limited. You can choose from roller shades in different opacities; shutters which may be traditional in form but they can still look amazing inside contemporary homes; another option is frosted glass which ensures ample lighting while still enjoying a certain level of privacy.
Other options include curtains, Venetian or Roman blinds, and louvers. Louvers are a fusion of Venetian blinds and shutters.
Contemporary Furnishings
Contemporary furniture designers offer a wide array of tables, sofas, chairs, and other home furnishings that would satiate people’s want for current interior design pieces. Anything that was built from the 19th century onwards is considered modern or modern contemporary.
Pieces that have been heavily influenced by the modernist art movement is considered contemporary. Compared to the visual ornate artistry of the periods before modern era, contemporary furniture is all about simplistic visual pieces.
Say no to ornamentation, heavy pieces and stuffiness. Instead, look for rectilinear furnishings that are often lightweight, casual, and therefore, more livable.
Materials used in the creation of contemporary pieces include natural materials, fabrics, and anything that has pronounced lines and edges.
Hidden Technology
Some of the hidden details in a contemporary home include innovative technology such as computers, phones, and smart gadgets fused into homes. Talk of futuristic remote access and wireless equipment put to good use.
Try to bring in more innovative controls inside your contemporary home. These will make your habitat more current and, therefore, more contemporary.
Tags: contemporary, contemporary interior design, contemporary interiors, contemporary style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Contemporary Is Compelling
Thursday, May 18th, 2017

Has it ever come to your attention that a lot of people are confused between modern and contemporary design? We all live in a busy world and everything is quickly changing. Just look at the models of cars, the appearances of houses, and the surroundings in general, you would notice the lifestyle that now differs from the ones enjoyed in the past.
Contemporary with Modern Architecture
Contemporary interior design, pretty much like architecture, reflects the life’s trends. These days, you would easily recognize what is traditional and what’s modern. Architecture for the modern world does not have curves, heavy ornaments, or complex shapes and lines. These features are often associated with traditional style, hence, their opposite – clean, straight lines or curvilinear silhouettes are seen in modern structures.
The rooflines of modern architecture have turned flat. There is also the increasing idea to blend the home with the nature outdoors. Large windows are definitely in and they have actually become the trend for contemporary habitats.
Light is also an essential psychological part of human existence. It has created a huge impact on the surrounding area as well as on the inhabitants’ health. Just like plants, people are also in need of natural light. Its importance to contemporary living, therefore, cannot be questioned.
Since light is very important in contemporary settings, you should learn how to incorporate skylights, large windows, and ceiling to floor panorama windows. These are crucial in letting in natural light and having the occupants see the scenic views outside.
Gone also are the dark rooms of the past. These days, people make use of a lot of mirrors and they are busy setting up airy, light rooms.
Pretty much like modern homes, contemporary furniture designs also reflect the current trends and fashions of our time. Don’t expect to see ornate furniture. While the contemporary pieces are more streamlined, they are still stylish without breaking functionality.
Contemporary and Green
To comply with the green interior design and architecture, it has become apparent that the use of natural materials is inevitable. The popularity of green living and buying organic has taken the world by storm. Today, the use of materials such as wool, leather, cotton, slate, natural linen and stones has become a hot trend.
Decorative accents and patios all over the world are now enjoying the beautiful look that natural elements offer.
Contemporary Equals Minimalism
Interior designers usually recommend using subtle colors called neutral. These colors include brown, gray, black and white. These hues are also the right base for any contemporary home. Neutral hues should never be perceived as monotonous or boring. Furnishings and flooring with subtle colors can be accentuated by pieces that complement the overall design. These accent pieces are often stainless steel or any other metal.
Since the overall concept of contemporary design is about spaciousness, airiness and ample lighting, more and more homes these days are turning minimalist. Everyone is also saying yes to less or zero clutter.
Contemporary finishes include ceramic tiles, hardwood flooring, marble and natural stones. The comfort and coziness of contemporary homes also feature area rugs that define the different home zones. These are also popular for the living and dining rooms which are often unified even in an open floor plan.
Contemporary houses feature flexible, open floor space which unify the grand areas of a home. The kitchen, dining and living rooms all fit to the whole new meaning of the great room. These zones can now be easily blended using visual barriers rather than bulky furniture.
Details and accents are also important in a contemporary setting. Don’t forget to add simple yet stylish glass, metal railings, lighting fixtures and modern art.
Tags: contemporary, contemporary interior design, contemporary interiors, contemporary style, contemporary theme, contemporary vs. modern, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern vs. contemporary
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Contemporary Design: Light, Breezy and Free
Thursday, May 11th, 2017

Cynthia Rowley oozes with contemporary features. This Twin Peak King Sleigh Bed is an awesome contemporary piece to own.
Contemporary and modern are two words that have been used interchangeably throughout the years. For a lot of people, these are the same when referring to fashion, hairstyles or furniture. In the world of art, though, these mean two different things.
Contemporary vs. Modern Art
The best way to begin understanding the differences of these two is to look at the artworks covered in each era. Modern Art shows a lot of impressionism up till the 1970s. Contemporary art, on the other hand, is anything from the 1970s up.
Modern art focuses on the inner visions of the impressionists. Artworks during that time were expressions of these artists’ visions using real life images and social issues.
Contemporary art is anything from the ‘70s till our present-day. Artists under this style are constantly working in movements that are difficult to classify. If you’re having a hard time defining this art, then think of biodiversity, feminism, racism, bio-engineering, etc. The hottest social issues are also the hottest subjects for contemporary art.
Contemporary Lines
Smooth surfaces and straight, clean lines are the features that contemporary design offers. This style has zero intricacies though this would not mean that your home is bound to look cold or stark.
The updated contemporary design at present effectively blends livable and comfortable elements. These – no matter how simple – can still create a fresh and sophisticated look and feel.
Contemporary Colors
Contemporary design is often balanced by neutral hues. So, when you’re painting your walls, you would want to stick with shades of taupe, brown, white or cream. Spice up any room by painting an accent wall (having one wall painted with a different color).
Add a brightly-colored sofa as a subject to your neutral walls. Use decorative accessories such as rugs, pillows, lighting elements and the most interesting artworks.
Contemporary Metal Accents
Metals such as nickel, stainless steel and chrome are quite popular in homes that have a contemporary design. These provide a pretty, sleek finish that can make your home look cleaner. There is also a multitude of finishes to pick from.
Home accents for contemporary homes could include metal lamps, artwork and shelves.
Contemporary Textures
Adding texture in your contemporary home could spell the huge difference between an inviting setting and a stark one. So make good use of fabrics like crushed velvet, wool, linen and silk. Use accents such as window treatments made with fabric, overstuffed pillows, linen wallpaper, area rugs and upholstered furniture.
Contemporary Wood Tones
When picking wood surfaces, contemporary design is much like a spectral display. It could either be too light or too dark tones. There is a wide range of woods, designs and finishes to choose from. You are also free to create a distinctive flooring design.
The only limitation is your imagination so be sure to fuse wood to your contemporary design. Use wooden flowerpots if you would. Use it also on picture frames, shelves, and accent tables.
Contemporary Lighting
By now, you must know that lighting is an essential element of interior design. Contemporary lighting means a lot of things. It could be chandeliers which are wonderful overall lights or it could also mean table lamps that is both a task lamp and a decorative element.
Contemporary homes are energy efficient, at least this should be the case. Consider using a LED fixture as these have a longer life span and they have the additional benefit of being environment-friendly.
Go Minimalist
Lastly, you should also learn minimalism in order to achieve contemporary style. Use simple lines in architectural details, furniture, and every single decorative element. Geometric shapes and forms are welcome in contemporary design, too.
Tags: contemporary, contemporary interior design, contemporary interiors, contemporary style, contemporary theme, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Contemporary Interior Design: Living, Breathing Art
Sunday, January 31st, 2016

The Summer Home Collection of FFDM features this neutral colored bed and nature-inspired blanket, all perfect for a Maori-inspired home. Notice how the blanket connects with the accent pillow, framed artworks, and the decorative piece underneath the bedside table.
There are many benefits to island living. The most obvious are a relaxed atmosphere, having the chance to breathe in the fresh sea air every day, and a congenial community. Tropical living is impossible in city dwelling but the same ambiance can actually be replicated. Are you up for the Maori interior design?
Maori or tropical island design is one of the hottest styles or trends in interior design these days. This design covers just about anything from sports, modern to contemporary living. Jump start your island setting by using fine art, colorful furniture and accent pieces, paintings, etc.
What is island living without any plants?Find colors that signify your chosen theme including different shades of blue and other natural colors. Burlap material is a great choice for your wall covering. The Tiki also depicts island living with its bamboo bed sheets and shades.
Tropical plants are must-have decorative pieces when you want to go Maori. Use live or silk vegetation, even timber statues. Bring in palms (the natural types are best) to your living room.
Window treatments must be airy and gentle to the sight. Bamboo bed sheet colors should also be easy on the eyes. Other valuable options include bright colored drapes and sheers. Island prints are also the best pattern for your sheer curtains.
Various crafts can be acquired in order to come up with the Maori style. It is best to look through photographs that involve sugar plantations and areas that plant blueberries. You can also look for essential oil pictures that are linked to yachts and freight boats. And just to prove your point, go on and have pelicans, seagulls, turtles, whales and other forms of sea life as art inspirations.
You are showcasing no less than the beauty of Maori living so go all out.
Another design element that you need to consider in island living is the use of more space. This kind of lifestyle has to be inviting and comfortable. The designs must be relaxing especially inside the master bedroom and bathroom.
You can also adapt the same concept inside your children’s rooms. Many youngsters love the idea of being flanked by a lot of seashore images. They are also settled by the lively yet comforting colors.
Lavatories are organic pieces in any island inspired bathroom. As for the kitchen, make use of bamboo, wicker, and the open picnic stands. Outdoor desks are also welcome in this environment. A lovely Tiki hut can serve as the island in an outrageously spacious kitchen.
Another important part of Maori design is to achieve a clutter-free setting, hence, you would need a lot of storage regions. Add a dash of tropical colors, wicker baskets, fresh paint shelving units, and wooden partitions.
Maori design can be used in either the home or work setting. This is an appealing, friendly and warm style that can make work environments more joyful and homes more pleasant. Search from among our accent pieces and furnishings to give life to your planned theme.Tropical island living becomes more appealing and enjoyable when you share it with your loved ones and your friends. So, as soon as you are able to set up a welcoming fountain outdoors (or any obvious water element), bring in some fresh potted plants, and invest in some wicker or wooden furniture; you should call those closest to you and celebrate the beauty of your new place.
Go ahead and grab the best interior design magazines and glean more ideas regarding island living. The Maori style is one-of-a-kind; the sky’s practically the limit when it comes to this theme so visualize, experiment and celebrate.
Maori interior design is awesome!
Tags: bamboo, bamboo furniture, bamboo interiors, contemporary, guidelines, Maori, Maori design, Maori interior design, Maori style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, natural, natural colors, natural elements, natural hues, natural wood, nature in interior design, nature-inspired design, nature's colors, neutral, neutral colors, neutral hues, patterns, tips, tropical colors, wicker, wicker furniture, wicker furniture pieces, wicker pieces
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016
If you have an artistic flair that needs to be satiated, then you might feel that your home is in need of a shot of color. The latest geometric accent pieces and wallpapers can give your home that needed lift. Imagine still feeling energized even during the dreary winter months as nothing can compare to bright and bold patterns when it comes to invigorating the senses.
A Daring Move
Geometric patterns are the hottest topic in interior design these days. Chevrons and stripes have been dominating the headlines in many interior design magazines for a long time. This trend is here to stay but if this is your first time to embrace this bold style, then it is advisable that you take it easy.
Do not run and invest in the boldest carpets and wallpapers all at once. Fine patterns that are unique which will surely pass design fads. The usual stripes and chevron patterns can give a feeling of modernism and youthful vibrancy. While this is so, you need to consider the overall style of your home so that the geometric patterns you are going to bring in will fit.
It is not difficult to create subtle yet sophisticated looks just by looking for a muted neutral shade then slowly layering with a bold mix of colors and hip patterns. Just make sure that you use bold patterns sparingly or you would be left with a room that confuses the beholder.

Accessories Uttermost Geometric Shapes, S3 19935 are black ceramic shapes complete with crystal feet and bronze undertones.
Consider Your Mood
It is also crucial that you think about the mood that you would want to project in your home. Soothing and relaxing places are your bedrooms and the living room. You can still use graphic prints in these rooms but limit your color palette to the soft and calming hues. You can also extend this same cozy effect to your master bathroom and all other bathrooms in your home.
As for the kitchen, dining area, the hallway, and rooms where foot traffic is almost constant, go ahead and splurge on those vibrant wallpapers. These are now available in many exciting patterns and colors. They are sure to energize the entrance hall and would leave a lasting impression with any visitor.
Never be limited by the thought that geometric patterns are for contemporary homes only. There are many options for just about any theme that you can think of. For the more traditional styles, then add glamour through subtle geometry. As for modern themes, the sky’s the limit pretty much.
Draw some inspiration from different eras, for instance, if you feel inspired to use materials from the Art Deco period, then find linear patterns, subtle curves, and monochrome or metallic colors. If you want contemporary styles, then find wallpapers in a ‘60s vibe. These could have a dizzying effect at first but you will soon appreciate the unique vibe that they bring in to your space.

Accessories Uttermost Geometric Impressions Modern Art 35309 is a hand painted canvas with geometric pattern rendering a three-dimensional effect.
You can also opt to use two-tone geometric patterns or have those harlequin-like patterns of diamonds and a spectrum of colors. Should these remain uninspiring to you, then choose a mixture of eighties design, palm leaf and bold shapes.
It is not advisable to decorate an entire room with geometric patterns. Less is more with this kind of style. Also, it is not just for the brave and daring homeowners who would set up a feature wall; it is also a style that can fit a person with delicate personality.
Wallpapers are not the only stuff that you can bring in. See the metallic geometric shapes below and you would know that geometric design can also be a decorative element.
Featuring geometric artwork is also a welcome move as are the use of rugs, carpets and furniture that show interesting patterns and textures.
Tags: bold, bold design, bold statement, Chevron, contemporary, contemporary interiors, contemporary style, contemporary theme, design geometry, geometric design, geometric interior design, geometric patterns, geometry in design, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern, modern style, modern theme, modernism, patterns, stripes, stripes in interior design, tips
Posted in Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Geometry in Interior Design: Fun, Hip and Stylish
Wednesday, January 20th, 2016

What would be more perfect for the dining room in your old home than this table from the Antebellum Collection of FFDM?
Do you know the old saying that old homes have souls? If this is the case, then you really have to find time to redesign an old home (if you happen to live in one). Interior design, after all, is not all about the creation of a new residence. If you are one of the few that are blessed to own a house that has already earned its own character, then it’s high time to bring out its best features.
Hide All Imperfections
One of the best ways to conceal imperfections is to paint over them. So go ahead and paint the ceilings and walls. Be sure to highlight the walls, trim and ceiling.
What makes people fall in love with older homes is how they speak of a different era. Back then, there was a certain level of personality and polish that are required for finishing touches. Simple coats of paint can preserve and highlight beautiful architectural details.
Designers typically paint a single color on the trim, walls and ceiling. The trim has a slightly higher gloss so that it subtly calls for attention. Once this palette is already in place, find a bold shade such as dark gray to paint your doors. These will serve as architectural highlights in your home.
Paint the trim work in neutral contrasting shade if it is still in great shape. This is a great way to show it off while being consistent in every room throughout your place. Applying the same paint on the ceiling can help fuse the look together for a more stately and architectural appeal.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Arched Mirror comes in a light wood finish and an elegantly aged driftwood finish.
Still on your home’s vintage trim, make sure to use in-window shade rather than hanging drapes. This is so you can leave the trim exposed for everyone to enjoy. These shades also add a modern touch in a subtle way, one that would not steal the integrity of your original home.
If, however, you have awkward looking windows, then go ahead and use those drapes. A lot of older homes tend to have quirky windows. A wall of drapery should hide such windows.
Another beauty that you can use in designing old homes is the installation of stained glass. If you do not already have them, invest in this type of glass which will make simple white walls appear more stimulating.
Embrace Contemporary Furnishing
If you want your traditional home to have an edgy, modern-day feel, then make sure that you invest in contemporary furniture pieces. These are those simple pieces with clean lines. Find rich textures, soft colors and linear pieces. Going radical when it comes to modernity is not the way to go, though. Make sure that you are able to control both contemporary and traditional concepts in such a way that they won’t fight. Take for instance the lovely Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed (313280B) which brings together both contemporary and traditional concepts so beautifully. This queen size bed is crafted using birch veneers and hardwood. It comes in two-tone finish namely the dark vintage and the lighter heirloom tone. Its aged birch veneer is the right touch to any traditional setting. Add to this the antiqued metal, crown molding, as well as overhanging tops, and you’ve achieved sophistication.
This lovely bed also comes in California king size.
Still on mixing modern and traditional periods, another way to add a modern feel is to place appliances such as TV, a computer or a plush sofa inside the room. Modern accessories will also make a huge difference in old homes so don’t be afraid to add in a dash of modernity.
Tags: classic, classic design, classic home, classic interior design, classic interiors, classic style, classicism, contemporary, drapes, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern, neutral paint, neutral paint colors, old architecture, old home, old homes, redesigning old homes, timeless, timeless design, timeless interior design, timeless interiors, tips
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Tuesday, January 19th, 2016

L-R: Accessories Uttermost Sea Fans Framed Art S_9 35239 and the Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Cutting Garden Rug 0450CS0032610 are both available at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
A lot of the design trends these days involve bright, bold colors. This should not be a reason for you to stop using milder, more calming colors if you really want to. If you are in a pastel mood, then there is no need to conform to the bold patterns that many modern homes use. Creativity is the key to accessing the beauty of pastels. There are so many ways that you can utilize pastels to spotlight spaces or open up dark, crammed up rooms. Creating a winning interior with the use of crisp white combined with irresistible pastels is now easy.
Pastels + White
Heightening the effect of pastel is as easy as pairing it with white. Many designers use soft hues as a standalone color inside many homes. Some use an accent wall complemented with any accessory that comes in the same shade.
A white room is a great playing field for lovers of the pastel palette. The secret to using pastels in a seemingly blank room is to have them as accent pieces like artwork, textiles and lighting fixtures.
Any shade of pastel can be used to achieve a soft glow. Warmth and softness is the beautiful result of cream and gold plus some light pink roses.
When the walls come in any pastel color, then you can use white textiles and furnishings. This is a powerful combo that can be balanced with the use of pastel accents such as throws and some pillows.
Pastels + Bright Colors
If white and pastels result into a crisp interior, then pastels plus some vivid colors equals awesome. The biggest trends today play up the pastel colors by adding neon and other bright hues. For instance, pastel walls can be highlighted by a neon pink cornice. Pastel blue rooms can be heightened with bright colors such as lime green or orange. And while you’re at it, check out the uniqueness of pale green, light chartreuse and lavender. These are all irresistible colors that will look hot with coral pink; light green walls can be paired with peachy sheets; modern shelves can house bright colored books.
You might wonder how two colors on almost opposite ends of the spectrum could fuse so beautifully. Pastels and bright colors are alluring because they complement each other marvellously. For instance – going back to hot pink – it can be your color of choice for the mirrors, bed, lamp and pillows inside your place of relaxation.
One other approach to pastel interiors is subtlety – like really subtle. An example is a white room with silver motif. Add a dash of blue table lamp and throws and you’ve just achieved a modern room that elevates pastels without being overpowering.
Gray can also be combined with pastel colors to create contemporary look. This can be both soothing and sleek.
Going All Out
The final approach is to go all out. Use monochromatic pastel as a powerful statement on your walls, the furniture pieces, upholstery, and some of the major accessories.
If you want to use more than one pastel color in any room of your home, then be sure to put them all together in a concerted display. A single row of pillows in lemon yellow, green, lavender, or dark pink can make a room pop. A rug such as the braided area rug from Capel Rugs perfectly caps the lovely theme. This soft chenille rug comes in various colors and custom shapes.
Tags: adding colors to a home, artwork, contemporary, gentle, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, monochromatic color palette, monochromatic color scheme, monochrome, monochrome interiors, neutral colors, neutrals, pastel, pastel color scheme, pastel interior design, pastel interiors, pastel palette, pastel theme, pastels, subtle, textiles, tips
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