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Monday, April 25th, 2016
Fine Furniture Design Dining Room Rectangular Dining Table 1051-818 spells cozy and comfortable.
The kitchen is known as the heart of your home and don’t you agree that it is referred to as such because it is more than just a place where you could cook and eat? The key ingredients to a welcoming kitchen are your family, friends and your guests. This is an area of socialization, a place where relationships flourish and remain intact.
So what can you do to make the kitchen a grand social spot?
It’s All About Coziness
Generally, people do not like hanging out inside desolate rooms. This means that your kitchen has to be comfortable so that people will be drawn to it.
The kitchen that comes with a small (or large) dining area has to have a generous amount of seating. Each chair must have comfy cushions. A beautiful dining table accessorized with a big bowl of fresh fruits will give the place a lived-in feel and a more inviting vibe.
You might also want to consider including a casual seating section. You would soon notice that people would take more time to spend with you as they sit in that comfy chair in your kitchen. A sofa, cushioned bench or chair would effortlessly create a welcoming ambience. Placing the sofa perpendicular to the kitchen island would give the cooking area and chill out zone a more defined division.
Fusing the Dining Area and the Kitchen
If your kitchen was naturally built with a dining area, then it would require you less effort to make that area feel like a hub. This can become your entertainment hub as opposed to the usual spot which is the living room.
You would be surprised at the number of people that you can actually accommodate even in a small space.
Set Up a Breakfast Bar
If you don’t want to dedicate a dining table inside the kitchen, then that’s okay; you can still set up a spot where guests, friends and family members can sit down and have a chat while you are busy prepping the meal.
Having a breakfast bar right at the end of the kitchen peninsula or island is the right solution. This provides a comfy place for people to relax, tuck their knees in, and just be themselves.
The Winners Only Dining Room 48 Inch Bench DJ1455 will sit 2-3 people, making it the perfect addition to the kitchen’s social hub.
Kitchen with a View
What if you are one of the few who are blessed with a picturesque view right outside the kitchen window? What do you think you could do with that?
When you are planning a kitchen remodel, then think how you can include that view. Make the kitchen more inviting by facing the dining nook towards the window. If the kitchen has glazed windows or doors looking out the terrace or garden, then make sure that everyone faces the beautiful scenery outside.
Lighten It All Up
If the kitchen is opening directly to the outdoors, the kitchen will immediately become the center of your home. Bi-fold doors can open to the terrace which makes the division between the outdoors and indoors a tad more blurry.
Natural lighting is great but come dusk or the evening, of course, no one wants to be found inside a dingy or dark room. Make the kitchen as bright as possible. You would want people to be uplifted when they enter that part of your home so better fill the kitchen up with light.
Having the place painted with a pale or white shade is also an easy way to make the kitchen appear brighter. Shutters can be used to cover just the lower part of the kitchen windows, allowing sunlight to naturally flow in during the day.
Tags: dining nook, guidelines, kitchen, kitchen as social area, kitchen organization, kitchen plan, kitchen planning, McCreery's Furnishings, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 19th, 2016
Flexsteel Bedroom Queen Panel Bed With Storage W1909-90QS is perfectly balanced by the red and white floral arrangement and other exciting accessories.
The combination of red and black may not be a mixture that you have given much thought in the past. You might just change your mind once you see the winning reasons why these colors can take your home at the center of everyone’s attention.
Turn Up the Volume
Upping the wow factor of your home could be as easy as choosing the red and black palette. This color scheme offers just one vibrant hue but it does not automatically mean that the other color can’t offer drama on its own.
Red or black, each of these colors can make a bold statement on its own. They can actually be used under any circumstance. So, when you are designing your living room towards a bolder look, be sure to consider this marriage of colors.
What’s a living room without these exciting Uttermost Accessories Book, Bookends, S2 19589?
Who’s the Boss?
Okay, so you have finally made up your mind and are now bent on using red and black, now what? These are both bold hues so one of them has to give.
Choose which one – red or black would be the dominant color. To choose which, take a careful look at the curtains and walls of the living room. See also the floor as well as the natural light inside the room. Is your living room used generally for simple family get-togethers or more of an out-of-office venue for your colleagues?
Whichever you end up choosing as the more dominant hue, make sure that you harmonize every aspect of your design. Consider salsa red in your living room if you spend more time there and if you perceive it to be a cheerful room with lots of foot traffic.
A more subdued and relaxing living room can make use of deep rose as the central color.
Balancing the red and black palette means using complementing colors on the more dominant color. The complementary colors should be used on your accents. For instance, if you used red as the dominant hue, then you may use the quieter gray on other design elements.
Put In Some Finishes
Metals and woods in the living room can also contribute to your red and black color scheme. The use of lacquered-black wooden furniture pieces adds intensity to any living room.
Do you like the shabby chic look? Then use pale gray on your furniture while accessorizing with the more exciting red and black mixture. Remember, the color of the furniture should balance the rest of the colors and elements that you decided to use. A heavily black room, for instance, can be beautifully balanced by paler shades of red.
Living Room Uttermost Taggart Red Console Table 24379 does not need to beg for attention with its unique look and color fusion.
Just a Hint
Most of the time, when designers suggest red and black, homeowners have a tendency to wince. What they don’t realize is that this fusion need not be vibrant all the time. Don’t give up on these colors if you are the more traditional type. A hint of red – here and there – can sometimes do the trick. This is just as striking as a whole room filled with vibrant red. A simple red pillow propped against a plush, black sofa can be a simple combination that could also serve as the focal point in your living room.
The clever use of red and black can add the needed drama. The fusion can be used on the walls, floor and major pieces of furniture. If you prefer a less committed take on the red and black palette, then just use the hues on most of your accessories.
Let’s accept it –red is an eye-catching color. A red accent wall is the perfect backdrop for your beautiful black cabinet. These give the eyes a pleasant place to look at while taking the time to absorb the rest of the design elements.
Tags: black, bold, bold color palette, bold design, bold hues, bold interior design, bold statement, guidelines, McCreery's Furnishings, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mixing colors, mixing style, red, tips
Posted in Color Schemes, Living Room Design | No Comments »
Tuesday, March 29th, 2016
Jonathan Louis Norton Living Room Collection: This living room balances the vibrance of the bright colors and the subdued look offered by the neutral pieces.
Are you now at a stage when you have figured out what you would want your house to look like? If so, have you also come to the decision as to who would decorate your new or remodelled home? Will you hire a professional interior designer or would you take on a DIY project?
Back in the day, it was just the nobles who had the notion to decorate their homes but they always hired someone else to do the job for them. You don’t have to live in a palace or be a noble just to enjoy the services of a decorator. You also should not fear the cost that much.
Your concern in hiring an interior designer could also be because of your fear of a result that does not reflect your tastes anymore.
Some homeowners immediately collaborate with a professional designer while others hesitate or are simply confident with their decorating skills.
There are downsides and upsides in hiring an interior designer or in doing the project yourself. It is really up to you to weigh the consequences.
FFDM’s Boulevard Collection: The warmth of food is balanced by the water element and green leaf in a glass vase. The white cabinets house the most beautiful collections. As for accessories, what could be more interesting than the distinctive modern chandelier and silver cubed candelabra?
Advantages of DIY Interior Design Projects
The best reason to decorate your own home is that you love designing things. Your creative side just won’t say no to a project.
An advantage to this, apart from showing your artistic flair, is that you don’t need to pay anyone else to do the job. Add to this the glorious fact that your design will surely reflect who you are. As for the bragging rights, you also take full credit for the project since no one else pitched in their ideas.
Should you feel pleased with your living room design, then go ahead and carry out the project throughout the rest of your home. Where your do-it-yourself project takes you depends a lot on your strengths. If you are the kind of person who knows what he wants, then you are bound to love your creation.
DIY projects can also be done according to levels or stages or as funds allow.
The Downsides of DIY Projects
Primarily, you could mess up the project especially if you have no idea what you would want to include in your design. You have two choices when this happens – you can either live with the mess that you have created or you can invest another large sum of money to correct the error.
Errors in interior design are quite common which is why you gotta have the ability to visualize. You are either an effective creative artist or you’re not – it’s that simple. If you have trouble visualizing and putting creative projects into full gear, then you absolutely need help.
Lastly, DIY projects can be time and fund consuming especially when your learning curve is too steep.
The Upside of Hiring a Designer
Hiring a pro means you have a larger selection of furnishings, wall coverings, fabrics, and trades people. The designer has cultivated many professional relationships with tradesmen so you could potentially own a home that is tailor-fitted to your lifestyle and taste.
A designer can also save you money by doing the project correctly from the onset.
The Downside of Hiring a Designer
It’s always about the cost. It can be costly to work with an interior designer as it is an intimate process that could take months, even years to complete. If you pick the wrong kind of designer, then you end up with an adversary rather than an ally who would affirm all of your design decisions.
Hiring someone who was on the cover of an interior design magazine does not automatically mean that he or she is the right professional to work with. You need to find someone that you can trust and communicate with. You should also discuss your budget upfront as this is one of the most common causes of arguments between a homeowner and the designer.
Tags: DIY interior design projects, DIY projects, do-it-yourself project, guidelines, hiring a designer, hiring an interior designer, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, tips
Posted in The Interior Designer | No Comments »
Sunday, March 27th, 2016
Maitland-Smith Bathroom Seahorse Tissue Holder 1253-462
People consider home remodeling as they grow older. When such projects happen, it is crucial to make plans in age-proofing the bathroom. While style and comfort are great factors to make plan for during your younger years, aging brings about a different kind of perspective.
If you are planning on growing old in your current home, then it is wise to have the bathroom renovated in a much more accessible design. Together with kitchens, the bathrooms in your home are some of the wettest, most used areas. These are also the areas where accidents such as falls and slips often happen. With these slip hazards, it then becomes doubly important to take note of safety features that could make a difference.
Here are some ideas that will make any bathroom safe for every age level –
Shower Case Essentials
Installing a shower bench becomes more and more of a necessity as the homeowners begin to grow old. Age-proofing that part of your bathroom means the one who bathes will spend less time in a standing position. This could remove a huge amount of strain on the body, thus, reducing falling and slipping.
Another thing that you would need to install is a double-duty grab bar. This will serve as a bar for you to hold on to as you enter or exit the shower. This will also ensure that you won’t slip as you shampoo your hair or cleanse your body with soap.
Have one installed outside of the shower case and also in every interior wall. This is so an elderly member of the family can easily navigate the whole space.
A grab bar is functional because they can double as a robe or towel rack.
Have an handheld shower head installed. Adjust the height and you’re good; just place it right next to your shower bench and you can already take a bath while seated.
Age-Proofing Means Thinking Ten Times about Glass
While glass doors will effectively open up any bathroom space, they won’t be as functional when you have elderly members in your family or if two retirees are living with no help from younger family members.
Glass is a lot more difficult to maintain and they can easily get streak marks. Since this is so, glass requires more frequent cleanups, something that the elderly won’t be able to do as actively as when they were still young.
Install Good Lighting
Proper illumination can also make a huge difference. Ensuring that the bathroom space is well-lit means having lights that won’t cause strain on your eyes. Proper lighting will also show any wet spot that could be hidden by some shadows.
Choose from recessed, vanity, natural or sconce lighting.
Choose Durable Materials
Another way to age-proof a bathroom is to use porcelain tiles on your walls and any kind of textured tile on your flooring. Porcelain will last a lifetime so there are very little chances that you’d need to replace them. A wet rag can also clean porcelain in just a few minutes so this is the most feasible material to use if you plan to grow old with your partner in your home.
High slip resistance should be the factor that you will consider the most when choosing a material for the bathroom flooring. The rule here is simple, the higher the texture of the tile, the higher also its slip resistance.
These tips are simple ways that you can make the bathrooms in your home a lot safer. It pays to fortify this room in your home while you are yet young. Accidents can happen to anyone at any age so it is best to be prepared.
Tags: age-proofing bathrooms, bathroom safety, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, tips
Posted in Apartment Living, Bathroom Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »
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.
Fine Furniture Design Home Entertainment Maori Entertainment Base 1220-693
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.
Fine Furniture Design Home Entertainment Maori Entertainment Base 1220-693
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 »
Saturday, January 30th, 2016
Winners Only Dining Room 42 Inch Farmhouse Round Table With 2-8 Inch Drop Leaves 54242F. This two-seater table should look perfect on that tiny space that you’ve allocated for your breakfast nook.
Okay, admit it. You are one of those who run out of the door the moment you finish taking a sip or two of your orange juice. Whether you are this fast-paced person or a laidback one who loves to spend weekend gatherings with her family, then you know how important dining areas are. But the dining room can sometimes have an aura of formality, one that you might not want all days of the week. Casual dining begins with the breakfast nook.
The breakfast nook is an ideal place to spend your simple weekend gatherings as a family, also a quiet corner as you finish your bowl of oatmeal in the morning. It’s time to relax over your morning food.
The breakfast nook can come in any style that you want but there are simple guidelines to follow.
Seating and Table Guidelines
Unlike dining spaces which are more formal, you have to find a seat for your cozy nook before you shop for the right table. Traditionally, the nook is built in a corner right where two walls converge. L-shaped layouts work best.
Choose from a series of cabinetry, cushions, and seats. Carefully consider what you would place as a window seat, bench or settee.
Other choices for the nook are the regular dining chairs that can be placed against the window or a wall. Pedestal tables can effectively save space and you won’t have to worry about bumping on your loved ones’ knees as you enjoy your morning meal.
There is no one particular design that fits all types of breakfast nook. In fact, the table that you eventually pick should fit your preference on seats, the size of your family, and what shape you would want for your cozy corner.
Whitewashed pieces are great when you want to achieve a cottage appeal.
Canadel Dining Room Upholstered Seat Bench BEN89025TD-24. Choose your seating piece well since you only have a limited space to work with.
Lighting Tips
Don’t even think about mounting a light fixture onto the ceiling. Find pendant light or a small chandelier that comfortably hangs at 30 to 34 inches above the table.
Traditional spaces can use smaller chandeliers that are made of metal or wood. If you really favor the farmhouse look, then find painted or tole chandelier. Metal flowers can have a classic effect.
For a more modern look, use pendant lighting with barrel shade or an art glass.
Flooring Options
Kitchens are often installed with hardwood flooring. This is because of the heavy foot traffic that is expected in this area most days of the week. You can soften the tough look of hardwood by placing a rug that is the same size as your breakfast nook table and seats. This rug defines the area while providing your feet with a comfortable feeling as you eat your breakfast and enjoy reading the newspaper.
Find a rug that can be easily spot cleaned. You can also buy a patterned or colorful rug that can hide visible stains.
Window Treatment Selections
Even when the breakfast nook’s windows are already shady, it is still pays to have an added amount of privacy by installing minimal window treatment. Such can add color, texture, pattern and warmth to your nook.
Woven shades can filter light while not totally blocking the natural light that comes in. Add patterns by having valances, cornice boards or faux shades. Should the windows face the street, then you should find a window treatment that lets in light while not having the diners feel uncomfortable because of passersby staring at them.
Maitland-Smith Kitchen Brass Paper Towel Holder, Rooster Décor 1254-262
You will also need to adjust the window treatment if your breakfast nook sits in the east. Make sure that it can protect your eyes from the glare of the morning sun. Consider louvered shutters, fabric shades or plain blinds.
Accessorizing the Nook
Say no to fussy pieces since you are just decorating a small area. Say yes to some throw pillows, bench, tie-on chair pads, tissue holder, and other simple yet decorative pieces. Personalize the area by bringing photographs and artwork.
Now that you’ve created the breakfast nook, an intimate spot, let’s hope you enjoy more cheerful mornings and create happy family memories in this area.
Tags: art, art decor, artwork, breakfast area, breakfast nook, cabinets, chair, designing nook, dining chair, dining nook, dining room bench, dining table, general lighting, guidelines, home lighting, interior lighting, lighting fixture, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, nook, settee, table, tips, unused nook
Posted in Accessories, Dining Room Design, Furniture, Special Rooms In Your Home | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016
This Hooker Furniture Living Room Geometric Chest will look great in any living area.
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
Tuesday, January 26th, 2016
Artistica Dining Room Quadrille Arm Chair 481-010. Imagine this awesome piece brightening up your dining area.
When trying to achieve industrial chic, there is nothing more harmonizing than the beauty of an open-space home and metal – especially copper. Iron girders and exposed beams, chrome bathroom taps, even stainless steel appliances all add to the exquisiteness of an industrial setting. If these are the only things that you think can be great for an industrial themed home, then think again.
These days, metal is everywhere – from the wallpaper to the flooring, even in furniture pieces.
The Evolution of Metal in Interior Design
Chrome initially said farewell to the bathroom then was seen in modernist furniture and lamps. The year 2014 was all about copper and the paint color of the year 2015 was also this same metallic hue.
The use of metal inside homes is far from new. Nobles during the Medieval Period had wrought-iron homes. Fast forward to the 20th century and metals were still very much in use. Chrome was then the star of the show and was accentuated by various polished mirrors.
During the Flower Power Revolution, metalwork became very popular among designers. It was used in wall sconces, chandeliers, sculpture and lamps. The ‘80s showed the emergence of brass and gold inside smart interiors.
Now, gold taps are common inside bathrooms especially among the most luxurious homes. You do not want to go all out when it comes to the use of copper or any kind of metal, though. Of course, you would not want to come across as loud.
The Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Harcourt Round Side Table 552-952 is made of hammered copper complete with nailhead trim. Concealed in this beautiful piece is a storage unit that serves multiple practical functions.
Copper, Copper, Copper Everywhere
Burnished and subtlety are needful in order to create warmth while adding a bit of sheen. Wallpapers, carpets and tiles also add a richness of copper and other metallic hues. Look at some bookshelves and sculptural forms and you’d be amazed at how copper can become the dominant hue yet restrained nevertheless.
Stuff in your home can be covered or painted with copper shades. Metals are not just there for cladding buildings anymore. It can also compete with wood and other furniture raw materials. Don’t get the idea that copper and other metals are cheap to work with. If you want to embrace quality then be prepared to invest. Your investment, after all, is sure to be enjoyed by your posterity.
Copper has long been used in interior design because it is a venerable metal. Its texture is cool but it can bring warmth in so many fashionable ways.
Bathrooms and kitchens are classic rooms where this gorgeous metal is used. It is both a functional and a design element. Copper is also wonderfully microbe-free which is why it is used in abundance inside these two rooms. What’s wonderful is that you won’t even need to use harsh cleansers in order to remove bacteria from the sink surface. A few hours of staying on copper and the bacteria are bust.
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron Copper Table Lamp 27697-1 is made with handforged metal complete with a washed copper finish. ‘Notice the dark bronze foot? It is sturdy and decorative at the same time.
Copper pots and pans are also priceless decorative pieces in any kitchen. They spell luxury and wealth. Do you have copper cooking utensils to boost? Then bring them out and have them serve as decorative pieces, too.
Hammered copper used in many furnishings have transformed what could have been a so-so piece into a stunning work of art.
Copper lighting fixtures also have a huge impact in illuminating spaces. These are design pieces by themselves – just think of chandeliers, pendants, and table lamps. These are stylish additions in any room. They can add dimension and boldness; they can also effectively define space.
Copper lighting may be used in a rustic, cozy, contemporary or Western setting. Choose from raw to shiny finish, brushed or oil rubbed. Would you want the natural look or do you prefer pieces with heavy patina? The choices are limitless when it comes to exquisite copper.
Tags: chandelier, copper, copper accent, copper accents, copper in interior design, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal design, metal theme, metallic interior design, metallics, metals in interior design, rich hues, subtle, tips, wall sconce
Posted in 2016 Trends, Color Schemes, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Monday, January 25th, 2016
mix
This sofa from the Fine Upholstery Collection of FFDM is oozing with eclecticism.
Imagine finding a streamlined L-shaped couch and a lovely shag carpet in the middle of your living room. These can provide the modern side to an eclectic home while any wooden piece will lend the eclectic vibe. The eclectic design is a spectrum of many different styles. It is the gathering of different elements coming from various sources then used together in perfect harmony. This style, however, is not an easy one to replicate more so to create. You need to learn to mix and match certain interior design and decorative elements coming from different themes.
Yeah, this is not as easy as it seems since taking different elements from your favorite styles and throwing them all together is not the way to go. So whether you will design a bungalow or a much wider space, make sure that you have an eye for balance and harmony. Now going back to that L-shaped couch and the wooden center table, such pairing will become acceptable if the background features neutral or any light-colored wall or floor-to-ceiling curtains.
Though you may like different elements separately, these may not look great when brought together. If you want to avoid creating design mess, then you have to be careful about your choices. Moderation is key to creating the contrasts that you need. Variety and contrasts, after all, are what comprise eclectic interior design.
What Strikes Your Fancy?
Think of eclectic as the union of the luxurious and simple; neutral and bright; even the East and the West. The leeway that you enjoy is what makes this whole design scheme tricky. Keep in mind that the borderline between chaos and acceptable contrast is very thin. The leeway that you enjoy is what makes this whole design scheme tricky.
Do you think you have the skill to mismatch something systematically? This is the very core of eclecticism. Find enough elements that will become the foundation. This common ground will be responsible for harmonizing everything else.
Any room, for instance, can showcase wooden furniture pieces that can give your home a rustic and earthy feel. Yet they could also turn out to be overpowering or monotonously boring if you do not use them carefully. Find decor pieces that will soften the overall look of your home (bright throw pillows or colorful area rugs for instance).
Don’t bother about matching chairs. Use a narrow palette and a dash of both shimmer and silhouette. Find artwork, accents, rugs, and lighting elements that play well with your background. Use light against the dark, flat and glossy, traditional and modern. Always look for prospects of creating analogous unions.
This inspiring dining set from the FFDM American Cherry Collection is a powerful anchor to the ornate carpet.
Another great rule of eclecticism is to edit as you go. It will be impossible to cram all your ideas in one room. As you go along, you will observe that finding the right balance becomes easier. Establish optical marriages of furniture and artwork, shapes and finishes, even focal point and accent pieces.
The fundamental pieces should serve as the anchor to your whole theme. Architectural elements can be repeated throughout, say, a gold-colored chair propped against a distressed white desk in your home office, all against pearly white painted walls, trim and door posts.
Before bringing any piece to a room, consider its relationship to the rest of the design elements. Will it overwhelm or become a dull addition? If this is so, then it is certain that your furniture piece should go someplace else.
Accessories Uttermost Iced Trees Abstract Art 31304 is a frameless masterpiece that spells eclectic throughout. This artwork will surely leap to life in any room.
Scale, composition and proportion are always important when it comes to interior design, however, they become crucial the moment they are used in a home with incongruent design elements. Pay attention to the mixture of artwork and accessories as there should be nothing unintentional in your space.
Lastly, eclectic design is also about texture layering. Create depth by bringing in on Oriental carpet onto a wooden flooring and trim. Upholstery pieces look great when paired with sleek desks. Different textures can create visual sensations that will surely excite the senses.
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Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | Comments Off on Eclectic Design: Your Home, Your Style
Wednesday, January 20th, 2016
Fine Furniture Design Home Office Trade Winds Writing Desk 1220-925 at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
The office desk is the central point of every work space. It is crucial, therefore, that you take the time to choose the right one. Don’t start looking at it as a daunting task, rather, an exciting phase that you need to go through.
There are many kinds of workspaces ranging from wide open, tiny to the hugely efficient. The perfect layout only becomes so if you find the right desk. Yet how do you get to choose the best?
The first thing that you need to remember is that the office desk is actually all about you. This is going to be your home base and private domain. While other office furniture must take into consideration other requirements, the office desk is one that has to meet yours. Prioritize your work habits as well as your preferences as you formulate the questions in choosing your work desk.
The office desk is both a computer work station and a place for paperwork. Make sure that it is able to carry computer equipment in such a way that cable clutter is reduced to a bare minimum. Some compartments will serve as storage for your computer components as well as important documents.
Take for instance the Fine Furniture Design Home Office Trade Winds Writing Desk (1220-925). This comes from the fine collection of Palm Island with a unique, softer finish called BALI. This is the perfect desk to invest in if you want your home office to stand out. Its finish offers a sun bleached look. Materials like hand-woven rattan pieces or woven padded twill will complement the BALI finish. Its hardware comprises custom metal and natural wood.
If you are going to use a desk for administrative purposes, then be sure to find a huge one that can accommodate shuffling and paper cataloguing. Storing or shelving documents and records will always be an issue in any office space so it pays to considering having an ancillary cabinet.
Do you also need to conduct meetings while you are seated in your work station? Then consider setting up a U-shaped or L-shaped layout. This will give you both a restrictive space where you can do administrative tasks, and an open space where you can hold conferences with others.
The discreet armoire can tone down a workplace ambiance.
The Hooker Furniture Home Office Skyline Executive Desk is definitely for the big boss.
Desk Materials
Common materials used in crafting office desks are metal, plastics and, of course, wood.
Wooden materials come in different colors and grain patterns.
Desks made of solid wood are great for aesthetic purposes. These may be pricier at first but you get to use it for the rest of your life. When maintained well enough, hardwood desks could even become heirloom pieces.
Hooker Furniture Home Office Treviso Writing Desk 5374-10459 at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
Cleaning Wooden Desks
It is important to clean wood furniture if you want it to last. Solid wood furniture cannot be cleaned with just any ordinary furniture polish. A lot of the most popular furniture polishes have silicone and wax ingredients.
It’s best to avoid these polishes. Wax can leave residue that has a tendency to build up overtime. This can eventually lead to an uneven or cloudy appearance. Silicone, on the other hand, leaves behind white deposits that tend to destroy rather than improve furniture finishes.
Clean wooden desks 6 to 12 times every year. A mixture of mild soap and water should do. Dust your wooden office desk every week using a dry cloth. Dust can also be abrasive so when left on wooden surfaces, it can dull the appearance of the furniture.
Acquiring a beautiful piece such as the Treviso writing desk on the right requires a lot of attention – maintenance wise and social status wise. This office desk was aptly named from a province north of Venice right on the Adriatic Sea. Treviso offers authenticity, one that ages beautifully through the years. Notice that dark macchiato finish of this rustic office desk. It will take you through the Italian Renaissance because of its lovely Old World antique look.
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