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Saturday, May 20th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Dining Room Elixir Round Dining Table 42in
The breakfast nook is an awesome place to drink your orange juice in the morning and read the newspaper. This is also the spot where your family can eat those Saturday pancakes. All in all, the breakfast nook is the best place to begin your day.
The breakfast nook is a mixture of banquettes, booths, tables and chairs. These pieces can be curved or rectilinear. It can also be installed with dimmable light. If you want to add a little character, then add colorful throw pillows. These are perfect additions to the cozy spot where you can jump start your day.
The breakfast nook can also be your homework station. It can also be an intimate spot for those candlelight dinners that you will share with your loved one. You might want to rethink your kitchen layout now that you know the benefits of having a breakfast nook.
Here are some suggested ways to set up your breakfast nook –
The Separate Booth
Millwork can easily separate the design of your furniture especially when it is compared to the rest of the standard pieces. When you create a separate spot – a snug spot – you can create coffee and omelets outside of the kitchen.
The Three-Sided Booth
This means hurrying around the dining table as bigger groups gather. Just think of the setup in a restaurant – what you need is a tufted upholstery that will cozy up to a breezy space.
That Booth by the Bay
Windows on triple sides create a breezy space. This is necessary since you need a little prodding in order to wake up in the morning. If there is a need to add space in order to accommodate more people eating, then try a bay window as it is an affordable micro addition.
The Corner Banquette
A tucked-in banquette should be able to maximize seating for everyone. A round table should help in keeping things more open. A lot of banquettes are customized though there are versions that can be readily bought to be quickly enjoyed.
Wesley Allen Dining Room Table & Chairs DT319H30
Other Ideas
Before they hit the wall, make sure that you cut the countertops as this will save a corner for a table and two chairs. A room could also make use of a thick wall that could be the home for your recessed cabinet or shelves.
You can also design your breakfast nook around a bench. This will work best for dining tables that are rectangular in shape. Cushion up those corners using throw pillows. Doing this will make the nook a great reading spot, too.
An island can also be used as a banquette part. A kitchen table may also be used to replace an island. Yet you don’t have to compromise. If you choose to combine the island and the kitchen table, then what you achieve is a workstation and a layout that maintains their traditional looks.
Another idea to consider when setting up the perfect breakfast nook is to use stain-resistant fabric only. These can be treated or you can just invest in outdoor fabrics such as Sunbrella.
Vinyl is also a great material to use as it is easy to wipe and clean. Green can be fused with bamboo chairs, leaf print as well as pink accents. To make the place more interesting, mix prints on your seats.
You can also go curvy by using a circular pedestal table. Likewise, a curved banquette will also be able to offer a pleasant eat-in space. Think also of warm colors and chrome finishes. These autumnal colors will create a comfy nook.
If you love everything that’s traditional, then you can also set up a farmhouse style breakfast nook. This should feature whitewashed pieces, rustic textures and old-style.
Tags: breakfast corner, breakfast nook, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, setting up the breakfast nook
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Special Rooms In Your Home | Comments Off on Breakfast Nook: The Building Block to Cozy Breakfasts
Friday, May 19th, 2017
The Belvedere Chest
One of the few materials used by humankind is wood. Since this is so, woodworking history is a bit more difficult to trace. In the earliest days, wood was just used for tools as well as weapons. Later on, even instruments were being made out of wood. Even the roughest forms of furniture were made of wood which is a far cry from the earliest stone furniture pieces.
Tracing the History of Wooden Furniture
It was not till 3,000 BC that the Ancient Egyptians started using wood in order to create furniture, though. Chairs, beds and tables were soon made with the most ornate designs. Some were even preserved up to our time as is evidenced by the furniture found in tombs for royalty.
Approximately 2000 BC, the Greeks were able to pick up. They also began using wood in creating their furniture pieces. Though the Greek types weren’t as ornate. Theirs had boxy frames so this says a lot about the influence that Ancient Egyptians have had with regard to their furniture framework.
As their furniture making developed, the Greeks began showing different designs. The pieces became less rectangular, thus, less stiff. They soon made furniture that was more apt to the shape of the human body, taking into consideration the curves and gentle lines of the human form. Rounded edges also became the new style to beat.
From 500-1450 AD or the Medieval times, wood furniture pieces turned out to be starker. The pieces were boxy and squarish, much like the earlier furniture. While the framework wasn’t too exciting, it was the furniture’s intricate and decorative carvings that made a whole lot of difference.
The Renaissance paved the way to a whole new level of furniture design. Art was at an all-time high especially during 1350 to 1550 AD. The furniture pieces showed a lot of curvature in their frames. Floral designs and scroll carvings were also born.
The Wooden Furniture in the U.S.
By 1500 to 1754 AD, wood furniture pieces have already reached the U.S. This was not surprising as new settlers were also pouring in during that time. Known as colonial furniture, these pieces came from different parts of the world from France, Great Britain and Spain. Their styles varied just slightly and there was also still a lot of curvature but less than the carvings seen during the Renaissance, the Medieval era and the Ancient Egyptian furniture phase.
Hooker Furniture Bedroom Vintage West California King Wood Panel Bed features lovely carvings on its headboard.
Woodworking: The Modern Times
Between the time when wooden furniture reached the U.S. and today, furniture making has really gone a long way. Throughout the Rococo period, the furniture pieces became ornate once more. These pieces were not just simple furniture anymore. These were also considered as a form of art. In fact, even up to today, they are still art pieces in the sight of many.
Still later, more and more furniture have been manufactured. Pretty soon, furniture making was being done in bulk, with more and more houses investing in wooden pieces. These were able to follow the trends of every new period. Even home decorating has become renowned.
Bauhaus and Art Deco were born and modern, wooden furniture has become less pricey and more accessible. Through the years, more and more mass-produced pieces were created. While this is so, people still look for the same things in furniture – they should be sturdy and beautiful. Some even look for those that they can pass on to their descendants.
At McCreery’s Home Furnishings, we offer only the best, most durable and stylish furniture that will surely stand the test of time. And our promise is this – our furniture will surely not disappoint.
Tags: history of wood carvings, history of wood furniture, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, wood furniture, wooden furniture
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Furniture Wood Carving: Traveling in Time
Friday, May 19th, 2017
BIBELOTS DISPLAY CABINET from the Deco Collection.
Reading a great book is one of the most pleasurable things to do on the planet. All you need is a comfy chair and a sturdy desk, some good lighting source and you’re good. It is crucial to designate a spot, though, so that you can curl up as you read your favorite novel or self-help book. Choosing the right spot means you are ready to enjoy your treat.
Some people end up reading in their bed or while seated on the couch but wouldn’t it be nice to read a book in a special spot where you can have your me time? The bedroom presents less foot so it is, generally, the best spot to set up your reading nook.
Never think that having a small bedroom means you won’t be able to set up a reading area. Even the tiniest bedrooms can even have a spot in a corner for that special reading nook.
If you would come to think of it, there are just three essentials for your reading nook – the chair, a desk and a good lighting source. There is always the option to add extras for your reading corner. These will help make the area more special but it all just comes down to the necessities just mentioned.
The Correct Chair
Alright, it’s time to discuss the right chair for your reading nook. The only word that you would need to keep in mind is comfort. Of course, comfort or the level of comfort is relative. This varies from one person to the next.
For the greater majority, a chaise lounge, upholstered chair or even an overstuffed chair is the most awesome choice for a reading chair. For some, though, especially when setting up a nook for teens or children, a comfy seat could be a pile of cushions or a beanbag on the floor. Whichever seat you end up choosing, the idea is for you to feel comfortable while you’re reading.
Make sure that the overall style of the chair is complementary to the rest of the design of your bedroom. Don’t hesitate to play with shapes, patterns and colors. Add a splash of bright color or pick upholstery in soft pastel.
The Best Light
Reading will always require ample lighting. This is because insufficient light will make reading difficult.
If you’re thinking that overhead lighting would do, well, think again. The best illumination would be a floor lamp that comes with an adjustable neck. This should allow you to direct the light to the pages of the exciting book that you are reading. This will also keep your eyes from looking towards the floor.
Easy reading means you choose a lamp that uses 50-100-150 watts. Top this using a translucent lampshade, never opaque.
If the reading chair is near the nightstand or dresser, then the bedside lamp is the best lighting piece to choose. This reading lamp can also add to the beauty of your existing bedroom décor. Pick a metallic floor lamp or a unique table lamp depending on your needs.
Jazz up your reading area using a lighting source that’s stylish but not attention-grabbing.
Still from the Deco Collection, here’s the La Meridienne Bench
The Optional Desk
Yes, this can be optional for some people though there are also those who cannot concentrate unless they are reading from a book that’s seated on a desk. Still others clear off their shelves from any other knickknacks to make room for their book collections.
The Extras
As soon as you are able to set up your lamp and chair, then pamper yourself with a few more extras. A decorative box or basket can also hold magazines. An area rug would also define the area where you set up the reading nook.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, reading chair, reading desk, reading nook, reading nook essentials, reading nook setup, setting up a reading nook
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Special Rooms In Your Home | Comments Off on Reading Nook: Your Adventure Corner
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 18th, 2017
Featured furnishings are from FFDM’s Fusion Collection
The three-arm candelabra consists of a single stick with a stem that’s trumpet-shaped. This comes on an oval base with eight lobes. This holds the double-branch inset complete with spiraling arms and a socket at the center. It also has a bell-domed cover. This cover has a shell and flame finial. These are the basic descriptions of a lovely candelabrum.
The History of Candelabra
The candelabrum and candlestick both have an interesting history to offer. They date all the way back from the 17th century. Candelabra then were made of silver sheets and had hollow stems. Practically speaking, the earliest versions were quite flimsy which made them quite fragile.
Die-stamping as well as industrial manufacturing methods beginning in 1760s paved the way to the quality candelabra which we know today. These Georgian and Victorian candelabra were carefully made by Birmingham and Sheffield silversmiths.
A huge bulk of the antique silver candlestick designs all follow the fundamental principles. These are the flat base, thin nozzle and column. There were very few variations in construction.
The candlestick’s value is hugely determined by the quality as well as the aesthetics of their designs. The candlesticks from before 1760 can actually still be found in a wonderful condition. There are some signs of aging but, overall, they are still usable.
Candelabra are rarer than the candlesticks especially when you are searching for the 18th century pieces. Most candelabra were made during the 19th century before electricity was invented.
These days, talented craftsmen dedicate their skills to the preservation of the traditional construction of the antique candelabrum design. The silver candelabrum can hold about two to six sockets. The arms are ornate but are also removable. This makes cleanup and maintenance a lot easier. The central stem often features a flame-shaped finial that is used as extinguisher.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Urn Candelabra 1653-754
The Elegance of a Candelabrum
Adding a touch of elegance to your home or even to any social event is as easy as using a crystal candelabrum centerpiece. With this piece, you can add visual interest in a room especially during wedding receptions, a dinner party or any other festive affair.
Enhance the sparkling crystals using colors innovative designs and textures.
Taper candles look beautiful when inserted into the crystal candelabrum holders. Find a colored candle that will enhance the color of your dining table. Choose also a style that will easily blend with the theme that you have chosen for your celebration. If a neutral hue is more like you, then just use ivory or white tapers to complement the rest of the décor.
As if the candelabrum isn’t already chic, you can still up the level of sophistication by draping long strands of clear or colored glass beads on the candelabrum arms. These beads will also add shimmer to your sparkling table centerpiece.
You can also use a wire flower garland all around the crystal candelabra base. This should soften the look of the lighting piece while providing a more natural element. Use florist wire cutters in snipping the garland. Add hot glue right between the garland and the crystal base. Be sure to secure the flowers in place.
Pick a flower type that will help set the tone of the special event. Roses, of course, highlight the romantic venue while holly berries look great during a holiday celebration. Use the candelabrum as a vase of sorts, a piece that will hold the flowers while candles are burning brightly above the floral arrangement.
You can also scatter flower petals right at the base of the candelabra. Place some small glass holders with tea lights to complete the look.
Tags: candelabra, candelabrum, designing candelabra, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Candelabra: A Rich History and A Bright Future
Wednesday, May 17th, 2017
Did you feel intimidated by the pleated skirt sofa in the past? Is it because you associated this style with that of the couch that you saw whenever you visited your grandma? Have you embraced the contemporary lifestyle so, by default, you are saying no to the skirted sofa? Or are you simply not sure what style of sofa you would like to use in your living room?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then worry not, you’re not alone. The skirted sofa can actually make or break the look of your stylish living room. It can easily become the star or it can be an effective background.
Here are some wonderful ways to make the skirted sofa a usable piece in your home –
It Is a Balancing Factor
The skirted sofa is a wonderful way to balance any leggy space. This is that space where the chairs and tables have prominent legs.
When used inside the neutral living area, the skirted sofa can be the perfect supporting cast so that other components will stand out. Leopard prints and strong blue colors will surely stand out with a simple skirted sofa.
The skirted sofa can also serve as a pit stop for the eyes once they travel from a monochrome ceiling, walls and flooring. The skirting will arrest the eyes especially when the sofa itself offers a delicious array of palette that’s not found on the backdrop.
It Describes You
If you want to lend a touch of your personality in your habitat, then you might as well find furnishings that represent your characteristics. You should also learn to define where furniture would begin and stop. You should also seriously consider using a chic trim to your skirted sofa’s hem. Imagine a Greek key trimming on a skirted sofa while a soothing wall sits right behind it. With these, you have just defined the absolute chic place.
The skirted sofa may appear too traditional for many reasons. It is this style, though, that makes it a personality-defining piece. Imagine a painted and exposed brick wall, some exposed concrete and lines that show industrial design – these are the best frames to an otherwise basic skirted sofa.
It Pairs Beautifully
The traditional skirted sofa often pairs wonderfully with any modern velvet chair. Preferably an armchair, the skirted sofa and velvet armchair combo offers a graceful, inviting and a luxurious living room that is difficult to achieve with any other material.
It Is the Perfect Frame
At times, there are living room pieces that are a tad more difficult to see. For instance, a glass coffee table can be hard to immediately see. Continue the visual plane from the flooring all the way to the cushions then the skirted sofa should provide the perfect backdrop for the rest of the design pieces.
Buy Quality Skirted Sofa
The best way to check for sofa quality is to scrutinize the construction and engineering aspects. While your hands are limited to the touch as well as the feel of the materials, these can pretty much tell you a lot about the skirted sofa that you are about to buy.
The best frame is made of kiln-dried wood held by nails and glue. You can enjoy 15 years and more with this kind of frame.
As for the seating support, make sure that it provides a good support on your back. Check for the suspension which is the webbing across the back and the seat itself. Feel also the cushion filling as you sit on the sofa. The firmer cushions come at a higher density and the softest materials foam wrapped with cotton.
Of course, quality skirted sofa has to be an investment, it won’t come cheap. But if there’s one thing that you can be sure of, it’s that you will feel comfortable in it and you would use it for a long time.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, quality skirted sofa, shopping for skirted sofa, skirted sofa, skirted sofas
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on The Skirted Sofa – Why You Shouldn’t be Intimidated by It
Wednesday, May 17th, 2017
FFDM Boulevard Collection: The fireplace is the perfect background for these rustic dining table and chairs.
One of the favorite amenities in homes that are about to be bought is the fireplace. This feature is a vital architectural part that offers an added touch of comfort, beauty and hominess. There are also a lot of benefits in having a fireplace in your home –
Coziness Achieved
No other kind of heating appliance will be able to provide the cozy warmth that a fireplace can offer. Whether you have an insert, open hearth, a wood stove, or pellet stove, it is amazing to see dancing fire while it is freezing outdoors.
The fireplace offers an awesome place where people gather as they read a book, enjoy board games, or simply spend time all together.
A Dreamy Setting
Isn’t it an amazing feeling also when you sit in front of the crackling flames with the person that you love most? Nothing can be more romantic than this. There are very few architectural features in homes that can offer this same romantic venue.
Parents who are having a hard time going on a date because of the lack of a reliable babysitter can just spend their date nights in front of the fireplace.
A Lighting Source in the Absence of Electricity
Why scramble for a lighting source during blackouts when you can have it with a fireplace. You can keep warm inside your home and you even have plenty of light when you keep the fire burning in your fireplace. Homes without fireplaces spend time waiting for the restoration of power by the utility company.
A Rustic Way to Cook
If your home happens to have a wood burning stove, then you can also cook in there. You can save lots of money on your utility bills as you use the fireplace to heat your coffee or soup. The stove also warms the room while you do your simple cooking.
If the electricity is out, you don’t just get a lighting source but also a place where you can prepare home cooked meals.
Enjoy the fireplace further by roasting hotdogs and marshmallows on sticks.
Green Heating
The wood burning appliances of today are amazingly efficient. This means that you use less of the fossil fuels to keep it burning. The latest models can even distribute heat throughout the rooms in your home. Just use the existing ductwork to dispense the warmth equally.
Wood is also a sustainable source of energy unlike fossil fuels that would – someday – be depleted.
Save on Energy Costs
Electric bills have a tendency to climb especially during the winter season. Fireplaces have become a popular heating source. They cost much less than fossil fueled appliances.
Fireplaces also offer independence from utility companies. You can now take responsibility over the source of fuel for your home, even how much you pay. If you happen to have a woods right at the back of your property then you can even have an almost limitless supply of firewood.
Rustic Beauty
Simplicity is the characteristic of many fireplaces especially when the accessories that you use all around them are monochromatic. The fireplace must be coordinated with the rest of your interior design especially since it has a tendency to become the automatic focal point.
A Little Warning
Being a fireplace owner means you also have to take a few safety rules in mind. First, you must dispose off any coals or ashes after they are done using the fireplace. Also, these must be disposed outdoors then cooled using water.
Instruct bigger children to stay away from the fireplace but when you have smaller kids and pets, then make sure that you have a fireplace screen at the very least. An adult must also be present when smaller kids or pets are lounging in the living room fitted with a fireplace.
Tags: designing the fireplace, fireplace, fireplace benefits, fireplaces, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Fireplace: A Favorite Home Amenity
Tuesday, May 16th, 2017
Uttermost Accessories Gilli Glass Decorative Containers, Set_2 19148
Modern interior design has welcomed the use of lovely water features in many homes. These homes now have the most peaceful and serene living spaces with water being the mysterious and versatile element that is used.
Some of the water features that are commonly used nowadays are fountains (both indoors and outdoors), pools, water gardens, aquariums, even walls with dripping water.
Water features are known to add a one-of-a-kind character in home décor. They have been effectively used in enriching many modern interiors as water easily appeals to the senses. These features also offer a calming effect while adding a sophisticated softness to organic styling.
If you’re not ready to use the biggest water features just yet, then just opt for small fountains or just a small water garden at first. The living room, entryway and the foyer are perfect spaces to begin your water decorating.
An Ambitious Yet Rewarding Undertaking
Bringing nature in to homes is an ambition that a lot of homeowners are now slowly striving to achieve. For centuries, people have been setting up ponds, gardens and waterfalls in interesting spaces in their homes. The loveliest accent walls these days don’t necessarily have to be painted a bright, flaming shade of red. It can be a wall with waterfalls. The space where the corner rack used to sit can now be utilized to set up a small pond complete with natural pebbles.
Fountains and Feng Shui
Have you heard of Feng Shui fountains? These are the hottest thing in Chinese culture these days. It helps if you can set up a lovely fountain within your home but for these to be used as a cure, it isn’t even necessary to make them look Oriental.
It is best if your feng shui water fountain works well with your home décor, though. Fountains are quite popular especially among Asians because they are believed to bring good luck and positive energy in homes. Others even believe that these water elements can bring prosperity and wealth.
Feng Shui placement for these fountains are –
North for career
Southeast for money and wealth and
East for family and health.
Here are two more important things to keep in mind when setting up your Feng Shui fountains – first, never use them in the south area. It is believed that you should use a fire element there. A fireplace would be a nice addition in the south portion of your home.
Also, do not use water features in the bedroom. Water element is known to bring sorrow and worry when placed inside the bedroom – any bedroom for that matter.
When you choose to be more practical, it is best to choose water features with good quality and a silent motor. You should also check the design especially when you want to clean the water feature regularly. The more intricate the water feature is, the more complex it would be to clean it – it’s as simple as that.
FFDM Del Mar Collection: The water feature need not necessarily show flowing water; sometimes, a little artsy version of it is that decorative ‘koi’ art right above the headboard.
Other Soothing Indoor Water Features
Add a Zen vibe to your home as you place a small pool or running water within the foyer or the living room. A waterfall that’s added in the dining room or the living room should make the place more inviting and active.
If you do not have a lot of space in your home – don’t fret – you can install a standing water feature right on your wall. If you want to impress the guests further, then be ready to install a ceiling-to-floor waterfall. It could get a tad more difficult to hear each other but you would surely get the hang of it pretty soon.
Tags: fountain, fountains, indoor waterfalls, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, water elements, water feature, water features, waterfall walls
Posted in Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Home Decorating 101: Water Features and Other Natural Elements
Tuesday, May 16th, 2017
High windows, when properly situated, can provide ample lighting during the morning. Featured here is the beautiful Hooker Furniture Dining Room Elixir Round Dining Table 42in.
With regard to architecture, daylighting makes reference to the utilization of natural light. Whether this natural light is brilliant or an overcast illumination, either is used to support the visual needs of the occupants of a home.
Most daylighting purists argue that the natural light should be the primary illumination source during the day. It must also be able to create thermally and visually comfortable lighting that’s linked with the scenic beauties outdoors. Others simply view natural lighting as having a home that has windows with a view.
Efficient and Productive Lighting
Daylighting is highly regarded for its health and aesthetic benefits. A lot of researchers and designers agree to this. Daylit habitats are also believed to increase the productivity of its occupants while also upping the comfort in the home.
As if these weren’t good enough benefits, you can also enjoy visual and mental stimulation which are essential in regulating the human circadian rhythms.
The use of natural light also leads to a substantial amount of energy savings. Buildings’ electrical light consumes roughly 15-percent of all the U.S.-generated electricity. This information is according to the U.S. Department of Energy also the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Did you know that homes that have been fitted with daylight-sensing controls reduce their energy consumption by as much as 20% to 60%?
Natural Light and Your Mood
The natural lighting level in the rooms in your home can truly affect your mood. These rays contain vitamin D which is also an added benefit. This vitamin makes people feel more positive. Brighter rooms, therefore, make us feel a lot happier, more vibrant and alive.
When adding a light color to your ceilings or when you use a glass pendant lighting fixture, the room will surprisingly feel lighter. Glass doors also let in more natural light, therefore, polished floorboards and the rest of the rooms look instantly more energetic.
Begin planning your rooms especially the ones that are too dark. Of course, you cannot just allow every room remain brightly-lit all day. There must also be areas where shadows play an interesting contrast so that your home will retain its character.
Who says bedrooms have to be dark? Let in a generous amount of sunlight during the day. Featured here is the Lazarus Queen Headboard from the Meritage Collection of FFDM.
Decorating Dark Rooms
It always pays to make good use of mirrors. The shinier the surfaces, the more light will be reflected off of them. This means you have to learn to effectively use brass lighting (this is so in this 2017), gold doorknobs, brass candelabra, silver photo frames, and such.
You can also install mirrors directly opposite to one another so that they would bring about infinite reflections on both sides.
Adding a mirror at the end of a limited hallway will make the space appear much longer. You can also create the look of a larger window by placing a mirror that’s as big as the window opposite it.
Conclusion
If you are designing or about to renovate your home, be sure to check how the windows would relate to the movement of the sun throughout the day. The windows that face south have a steady supply of daytime warmth and light. Even during the winter, you are sure to find a generous amount of light there.
North-facing windows admit the softer, more indirect lighting. These windows offer very little to zero glare. The rooms is that area are also not able to maintain the warmth during the colder seasons.
The west and east-facing windows are able to funnel the light during the mornings and the afternoons, respectively. These windows might cause some glaring so learn how to angle the windows where natural light is easier to control.
Balance is the ultimate solution that you would need in order to utilize natural light effectively. Remember that anything excessive – even natural light – is never good.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, natural light, natural lighting, sunlight
Posted in 2017 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | Comments Off on Daylighting: Enjoying the Positive Effects of Natural Light in Your Home
Monday, May 15th, 2017
Lexington Dining Room Oxford Square Arm Chair 4011-463-201511
The design term known as shabby chic was first mentioned in the ‘80s. It’s a term that is being attributed to Rachel Ashwell, an English interior designer. It first graced the pages of The World of Interiors and has since become a renowned trans-Atlantic feature.
Shabby chic is the marriage of country style British and the lovely chateau of France. This style emerged from the posh ‘80s when a lot of the interior design trends progressed to the charm of English homes. Pretty soon, shabby chic went global and homeowners were going gaga about it.
Rachel Ashwell moved stateside when she had to open her first Shabby Chic store in 1989. This Santa Monica shop took on the world of interior design by surprise. It is nearing its 30th anniversary in 2019. The design, by itself, now has a following of its own and it’s only the business model that needs a makeover.
Constant Revamp
The shabby chic style is in constant need of reconditioning, mixing and matching. It also pays homage to mending and making do with what’s existing. But you don’t have to strip your current furniture of its paint just so you can achieve the shabby chic style.
Nowadays, there are a lot of shabby chic furniture pieces in the market. While these furnishings are practically new, they have the lived in or worn appeal. In fact, shabby chic is also now infused with some rustic elements such as the 18th century Shaker style.
Shop for Shabby Chic
When looking for the perfect pieces for your shabby chic home, be sure to find the ones that look vintage. Take a careful look at the paint finish, look for the ones that have a distressed look. This means that the lower layer of paint has been exposed to suggest wear and tear.
You don’t have to reuse or recycle furniture that is already frail. Find the hottest ones in the market. Blend both fresh and new as well as pretty florals and antique lace. Shabby chic is mainly English so go ahead and set up your dining area for an afternoon tea. If there are tea stains, don’t hesitate to show ‘em.
Hooker Furniture Living Room Three-Drawer Chest
Shabby Chic Rooms
Shabby chic is a style that keeps living on. If you want to make it your own, then you can begin in your kitchen. None can be a more sophisticated color for your kitchen walls than the lovely gray. All the country elements would feel right with this hue.
After the kitchen, you can go on to the attic. Here, you can set up a unique bedroom complete with painted rough floorboards with white walls. Just add a charming Persian rug and you’re done.
When it comes to the dining space, it would be nice to begin with rustic walls. Use paneling and other elements that look vintage.
As for the bedroom, you can prominently display your furnishings with the distressed look. Even out-of-season cushions and sheets can be used as a display. Just wallpaper your armoire with the same wallpaper on your bedroom walls.
If you love colorful spaces, then have the shabby chic reinvented with a Boho twist. If you’re aiming for this, make sure to veer away from white and work on pastels instead.
All in all, shabby chic is far from shabby. This is a design that will surely add elegance to any home. It is popular so you also won’t worry about being out of style. Shabby chic pieces are very easy to find. This is added great news since there are hundreds of options to choose from.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, shabby chic, shabby chic design, shabby chic interior design
Posted in 2017 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes, Spring Season | Comments Off on Shabby Chic This Spring 2017
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