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Friday, February 24th, 2017
Black is definitely in with Hooker Furniture Home Office Lytle Writing Desk.
When talking in terms of photography, the focal point is that point in space where the parallel light rays converge after they pass through the lens or when they bounce off a mirror. The perfect mirror or lens should send the light rays through a single focal point which would result in a clear image.
The best-designed rooms usually have a focal point. This is that part where your eyes rest the moment you enter any space. Whether this is a texture, architectural feature or a lighting fixture, this is a visually interesting part of any home.
But is there an easy way to come up with a focal point?
Focal Point in Interior Design
The simplest way to make a focal point is to find the brightest or the darkest hues in a space. When creating a focal point, be sure to keep the palette of the rest of the room neutral. It’s okay to use grays or soft brown on rugs, sofas and walls. Use that bold pop of color (e.g. tangerine or emerald green) as your focal point whether you are using a piece of art, chair or a single wall.
Tie the rest of the design elements through the use of small accents in your chosen color. Use this on throws and accessories.
Black almost always captivates anyone who lays his or her eyes on this hue. This is can also work as a focal point – in fact, effectively so – because it is imposing and solid. Black draws the eyes while also grounding the space. This is the reason why black is an amazing focal point.
Use black items that have a unique shape like a bizarre lamp or a funky chair. How about a small black sculpture? That works, too.
Color is not the only way that you can infuse a focal point in a home, though. Always remember the elements of furniture placement. This is also true with accessories.
For example, if you want the eyes to go towards the fireplace, then be sure to arrange the furniture on both sides of the said architectural feature. Or if you have a unique lamp, be sure to place it in front and at the center of a console table while smaller accessories are placed all around it.
Focal Point in Architectural Feature
This central element can easily help you position furniture pieces in a room. The most common architectural focal point is the fireplace. Notice how all other design elements in a room tend to revolve around this architectural feature?
Getting the right size for an architectural element to become the focal point is the most vital thing that you need to consider. If it is too big, it may overpower the entire design. If it is too small, the furniture eventually become the focal point.
Focal Point in Artwork
A perfectly-positioned painting or any work of art that is centered between dual doors and placed on a console table is just the right vision to welcome visitors into your home.
The tone and size of the artwork is also crucial. Pick a painting that has an appropriate scale for the room. The tones must draw the eyes but should never clash with the rest of the design.
A large, bold art piece will look fantastic when placed against a neutral wall or beside a neutral-colored furniture. Using a series of prints also has a huge impact on any space whether they are identical or eclectically mixed.
Focal Point and Views
When you have a wonderful view to share, say, a lush garden or an infinity pool, then be sure to use architecture to emphasize it. An oversized window could do the trick. As you do this, be sure to choose simple furniture that will complement the scenic view outdoors.
Tags: creating a focal point, focal point, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Focal Point: The Creation of a Masterpiece
Friday, February 24th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Dining Room Treviso Ladderback Side Chair
The Shakers were a religious people and their sect was founded in the late 1700s in England. This design’s philosophy centers on functionality, even necessity. The Shakers also believe that design can also be achieved through proper use of beauty. They believed strongly, too, in common ownership as well as communal living. They were widely persecuted for these beliefs, though.
Officially known as the United Society of Believers in Christ’s 2nd Coming, these people were a break away from the Quakers from England. They created their religious society and granted equality to both men and women. The Shakers have greatly diminished by the 20th century with only a few practicing communities still in existence.
The Shakers latter immigrated to the Americas and they lived peaceful lives centered on celibacy and abstinence. Since they lived celibate lives, their community did not grow and so the only way they could add to their numbers was through conversion.
Styling It Like the Shakers
Shaker furniture was the chief element of the Shaker design. With too much persecution going around, it was necessary to make functionality the main concept of their furniture design and décor. This also meant that they focused on the quality of their craftsmanship. This resulted into perfected pieces that are natural, uncluttered and simple.
When it comes to colors, the Shakers loved everything that’s dark and rich. So say yes to forest green, blue and ruby red. Heavy damask patterns are also welcome.
The Shaker color palette should not be restricted to these hues, though. You are welcome to use magentas, raw pink, violets and peacock greens. Have those fabrics highly patterned. For winter, use damask and velvet pieces. You can then shift to chintz and cotton during the cooler summer months.
Wallpaper was widely embraced during the Shakers’ time because it was mass-produced. With this, the masses took on the hint and wallpapered their walls according to the patterns that they chose. Paper evolved from skirting board to dado line and then patterned in damask, flock or water silk.
Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Damasque Demi Console 638-85027
Shaker Style Today
Since the Shakers looked at simplicity yet perfected craftsmanship as forms of prayer, many traditional furniture lovers still like their style.
The ladder-back chair is the perfect way to get into the Shaker vibe. This chair did exist even before the Shakers but it was these people that made the furniture piece more comfortable. They chose to remove the ornate designs and just create the straight, simple designs with a much leaner look.
There are also modern versions of the Shakers’ ladder-back chair such as the elongated look complete with slender legs. There are also those well-known Shaker style ladder-backs that are now used in bars. These come in counter-heights.
The Shaker peg rail is also a famous Shaker element. It is a simple board that’s affixed to the wall complete with equally-spaced pegs. These can then be used as a hook of sorts for tools or clothes. Traditionally, it was the ladder backs of chairs that were hung onto the peg rails so they can be taken out of the way when someone is sweeping the room.
Going Shaker also means using cabinetry and baskets for storage. Use sturdy and simple baskets, preferably the ones that are handmade. As for your cabinets, you will find some of the best options here.
Find cabinets that have round knobs, simple and are unadorned. These have to be traditionally made from hardwood and polished to perfection. Shakers have also designed other storage units for homes such as nesting boxes.
As for your flooring, be sure to use untreated wooden planks. The walls have to be muted and bare which is in line with the Shaker interiors.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Shaker, Shaker furnishings, Shaker furniture, Shaker interior design, Shaker interiors, Shaker Style, Shakers
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on The Shaker Style Explained
Thursday, February 23rd, 2017
Wesley Allen Bar and Game Room Bar Stool 207
Art Nouveau generated a lot of graphic artists, décor enthusiasts and architects throughout Europe. This style came with a wide variety of choices and it eventually became known as Jugendstil in Germany or the Glasgow Style.
Art Nouveau’s aim was to modernize design. It sought to break free from the eclectic historical designs that have been popular back in the day.
Artists saw inspiration in many geometric and organic forms, thus, evolving from classic designs. This evolving style emphasized the natural forms of furniture pieces that resembled the blossoms and stems of plants.
Art Nouveau also highlighted the linear contours which took over hues. This is usually represented in yellows, muted greens, blues and browns.
The Art Nouveau movement was geared to abolish the common art hierarchy. Sculpture and paintings in the so-called liberal arts became superior to decorative pieces.
Art Nouveau also had its fair share of tests. It went out of fashion before the First World War which paved the way for Art Deco. Art Nouveau experienced a huge revival in the 60s which why it is now seen as the predecessor of modernism.
Key Features
The deep desire to break away from the historical features of the 19th century was a crucial motivation behind Art Nouveau. This also prodded the establishment of modernism.
Industrial production was widespread during that time yet decorative art was then increasingly being dominated by mass-produced stuff which imitated earlier periods.
Art Nouveau artists also sought the revival of excellent workmanship to raise the status of crafts.
Art Nouveau also dominated the academic system from the 17th till the 19th centuries. This underpinned the belief that sculpture and painting were superior to ironwork and furniture design. Artists overturned the said belief as they aspired to create an art totality or the so-called Gesamtkunstwerks.
This movement then narrowed the gap between fine arts and applied arts. Whether or not this gap has been completely closed is a matter of debate these days.
Art Nouveau and the Table Lamp
Table lamps are a few of the most renowned Art Nouveau pieces that have been produced. An example is a lamp with a bronze base that mimics the lower trunk as well as the roots of a tree. It comes with a glass shade that appears like the shade of a Wisteria tree.
Art Nouveau Design Elements
There isn’t a single definitive feature for Art Nouveau. That comes as a huge relief to many homeowners since this gives them a leeway to embrace just the distinguishing elements and then they can be themselves.
Art Nouveau is a philosophy that favors the application of artistic designs to everyday stuff. No single object was too functional to be glamorized.
Art Nouveau is also the separation of fine art and applied/decorative arts. So this is a distinction between sculptures and painting from furniture, ceramics and other practical elements.
In line with the belief that Art Nouveau is art in everyday life, you can employ decorative patterns in all forms of art that you can think of. Use tendril and leaf motifs, even intertwined organic features, curves, also right angles.
Both the stained and varnished versions of hardwood are huge with Art Nouveau. You could also go big with colorful and Oriental rugs.
Say yes to Tiffany lamps as well as stained glass windows. These create authentic Art Nouveau ambience.
As for colors, it is a matter of personal choice. Just as long as you keep it fairly light while being enigmatic. Use browns, sage greens, lilacs and shades of mustard.
For your furniture, incorporate leaves, stylized flowers, roots and buds.
Tags: art in interior design, Art Nouveau, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Getting Deeper Into Art Nouveau
Thursday, February 23rd, 2017
Century Furniture Living Room Accent Table SF5467 is saying a million yes(es) to marble this year.
We can now safely say that 2016 was quite an unpredictable year in terms of interior design. This year, you’re in for a ride as you are bound to push boundaries. The forecasts for this year are bold to the point of being jaw-dropping. There are trends that you need to say goodbye to and there are daring ones that you need to consider.
No to Antique
Yup. The pressure is no longer on when it comes to owning and displaying strictly antique pieces in any home. This doesn’t mean that you simply store the old pieces and just go buying new ones.
You will have to learn to pair the antique ones with some trendier pieces. It is wonderful to have a period as the starting off point but don’t stick to it exclusively.
Create a more aesthetically stimulating look that will harmonize with the rest of the mixed elements that you have in your home.
No to Oversized Furniture
Remember that ample space is more important than having large furniture. Oversized furniture often overwhelms – they are meant to be used only in the most spacious homes. If you have medium to small space, don’t overpower that limited floor area by stuffing it with large furniture pieces.
Just don’t. This year, you will have to use ideally-scaled pieces for your home.
Yes to Matte Appliance
The kitchen is an interesting room to design this year. The new look for kitchens is daring without being overconfident. Find objects or appliances with matte finish then strip away the walls and countertops of all other distractions.
Say no to surface sheen and other such attention-grabbing feature.
Yes to Marble Pieces
If you haven’t already noticed, Pinterest is showing a lot of marble pieces this year. This is a huge trend that you simply should not ignore.
Do you remember how the tile market used to be dominated by marble especially when it is paired with metal or wood? Marble-patterned fabrics and wall coverings are huge this year, just as marble and brass fusions are also a hit.
Yes to Jewel Tones
While beige is also acceptable this year, it can get dull especially when you are uncertain about what to pair it with. The best look for your walls is to add drama – use deep jewel tones such as amethyst, pastels and emerald green. These are also colors from Mother Nature which just cements the trend for 2017 that natural colors are also in.
Yes to Subway Tiles
One other trend that you can embrace – though not totally new – is the subway tile. This is a classic yet a versatile tile option which can work with many different styles.
This look is all about having an unexpected element in the middle of the rest of your design. The subway tile offers a great effect with any farmhouse kitchen. Just add a dark grout and you will automatically make the backsplash appear more graphic.
Subway tiles come in a variety of materials, finishes and colors. This is a wonderful way to fuse other design elements.
Yes to Smart Home Elements
People’s lives now revolve around equipment and devices. This is also true with our homes. You are bound to see more and more imaginative ways of infusing charging docks to spaces.
Say yes to smart furniture this year.
Tags: 2017 color trends, 2017 trends, interior design 2017, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in 2017 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on More 2017 Decorating Trends: Out with the Old, In with the New
Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017
Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Flamingo Octagonal End Table 593-951 has emerald green top which is perfect when married with the sturdy hue that is brown.
The year 2016 was a blast when talking about home décor. It was a year filled with Nordic-inspired interiors and everything woven. With the first quarter of 2017 almost drawing to a close, it is about time that you begin exploring the latest decorating craze. Most homes have already embraced the elements that are in for this year so why be left behind?
Green Is Definitely In
Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, a celebrity interior designer is certain that green is strong this year; from emerald to lime green, to hints of this color throughout your home, it is the one color that can give life on default.
Go Tropical
It is also not a secret that the interior design industry gets most of its cues from the fashion runway. This year, the fashion trends set by Prada, Marc Jacobs, and Emanuel Ungaro are quite huge. These designers have embraced the lush, tropical beauty.
Tropical prints will continue to dominate fabrics and wallpapers this year. If large prints are a little too much for you – don’t fret – there are still throws that can show this same look but with smaller patterns.
Decorating this year is pretty much like buying a trendy piece of clothing, you have to consider what’s hip yet, at the same time, a classic design element.
Don’t Forget Texture
Woven designs are still holding strong from last year’s trend. Remember that texture is what makes a home more inviting so don’t hesitate to blend in some of it into your home.
Textures are becoming more interesting each year. You can see brass tables that have been brushed to fabrics, wallpapers and lighting fixtures.
A quick way that you can add texture to your home is to drape an interesting piece of wool fabric on a sectional or a loveseat. Leather would also become more exciting with this interesting piece.
Marble and Brass Fusion
Young Huh has forecasted brass and marble fusion as something big this year – and he is right. The trend is now dominant in many kitchens and baths throughout the country. This is no surprise as it is a combination that is industrial yet glamorous.
Unique Patterns
What could be more interesting than geometrics for this year? Your goal is to create an African, Asian, or even Indian patterns but make sure that you modernize them if you don’t want to appear too tribal.
You can carry over this quirkiness to your lighting fixtures this year. Let unique designs dominate your dining room. This room is a wonderful space to do something rare.
Hooker Furniture Living Room Chairside Table shows the trendy fusion of marble and brass.
Muted Hues
If the thought of bold colors in your home mortifies you, then that’s okay, too. This doesn’t mean that you will not be trendy this year. If you’re feeling anxious about loud colors, then you can also go for neutrals such as camel brown, pale grays, beige and blush pink. These are super, super trendy this year.
Now let’s focus on gray. This was a huge color last year and it will continue to reign supreme this year. Look forward to different shades of gray, lots of gray white and deeper tones of this color. This is the kind of color that can add character to any home, one that would complement a wide spectrum of shades.
Say Yes to Bronze
If marble and brass are a huge combination this year, then bronze is a class of its own. This is a metal that can warm up your space while providing your home a classic, glamorous, even an enchanting look. This is the perfect metal to add to your lighting fixtures and accessories.
Use bronze decorative bowls, lamps and vases in the living room, dining room, even the kitchen.
Tags: 2017 color trends, 2017 trends, interior design 2017, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in 2017 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Be Vogue © with These 2017 Decorating Trends
Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017
BEAUTIFUL FRIENDSHIP MOROCCAN CONSOLE TABLE comes from the Humphrey Bogart collection of FFDM.
Arabian style makes one think of hot summer nights with colorful and ornamental features. These are definitely different from bare monochromes. This style is found throughout Europe and more so in Southeast Asia because this has a lot to do with the Muslims conquering both territories during the 7th and 8th centuries.
These days, Arabian style is still going strong.
The Arabic style is known to be luxurious and rich. There are fundamental elements in Arabic interiors such as windows that are closed by bars as well as carvings made of wood or plaster.
Arabian homes are also packed with repetitions and graphic tiles. Such repetitions are done to signify the infinite power of the Muslim god Allah.
Humans and animal forms are barely seen inside Arabian homes because the Muslims teach that Allah’s work is impossible to replicate.
Foliage is seen a lot with a lot of patterns. Though there are patterns everywhere, there is still the need to simplify.
Arabian Ornaments
Arabian windows create a gentle light effect inside a room. Double or single window openings overlap through the arches. They are also generally located on the upper part of walls. Bottom parts of walls form panels and are coated with some ornamentation.
Arabian ornaments are referred to as arabesque and they all form an obvious grid. These have geometric as well as stylized plant character plus labels. There are also some canonized handwritings since human images were banned by the Muslim religion.
Arabian Architecture
Arabian architecture is what’s referred to as architecture of the veil. This is because the beauty is often seen within the interiors. Amazing courtyards complete with pools and fountains cool the inner rooms. All these are concealed from the outdoors.
Arabic architecture makes use of decorative elements such as alabaster, stucco, wood carvings, marble, figured bricks, tiles, cut stones, glass or marble mosaic, wood or ivory inlay, and paintings.
If you observe more closely, you will see that carved wood wares have already reached perfection. The Arabs have perfected the use of valuable species of wood especially in the creation of mosaics. Ivory has also been used to show lovely mosaics.
Accessories Uttermost Gilberto Moroccan Candleholders S2 20099
Arabian Furnishings
If you’re into numerous furnishings, then Arabian style isn’t for you. The chief decorations inside Arabian dwellings are ottomans and wooden sofas. Add some carpets and fluffy pillows, a low coffee table and form them into a hexagon or octagon and you’re done.
Arabian furniture is all about wooden backs, legs and arm rests. Geometric ornaments are common in Arabic culture so go ahead use them on your storage shelves, chests and screens. Use ornate wardrobes and wall niche with doors.
Carpets must also be used in ornamentation. Use dishes, pitchers, bowls and other metallic or ceramic wares.
It is also common to find a lot of low seats or even just some pillows all over the floor. This can be attributed to an era when Arabs lived a nomadic lifestyle. During those times, families had to sit inside their tents, hence, the low seating areas.
Touches of bronze and gold, even silver, are another feature of the Arabian style. Give importance to colors like indigo and deep reds.
Add a lantern or two that are made of filigree metals. This will allow the light to shine through while still providing interesting shadow patterns on your ceilings and walls.
Arabian Characteristics: In a Nutshell
Tags: Arabian interior design, Arabian interiors, Arabian style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
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Tuesday, February 21st, 2017
Palm Island’s Mangrove Small Nightstand is just right for your cute bedroom.
Try taking a drive arrive some new neighborhoods and you are likely to see street after street of gigantic homes. The ironic thing is that these homes are often occupied by small households. What if you want to break away from the assembly line type of housing? What would it take to correctly design a small home?
Some crucial decorating decisions will help make a small home remain functional yet stylish. From the outdoors to indoors, a home can be filled with energy and personality – you just have to know how to achieve both.
Colorful Accents, Here and There
Colorful accents can add life to any neutral surroundings. For instance, a vintage-looking coffee table plus a room-size area rug are the perfect combo to your small living room.
Fundamentalism
White upholstery is the assurance that your living room chairs will always be in style. Be sure to outfit a neutral living room with the most colorful accent pillows, throws, as well as window treatments.
Storage and Display
Be sure to invest in cabinets which double as a display and storage unit. Your amazing collection of books can go to a bottom shelf while photographs and paintings can be added to add some color to any neutral ensemble.
Place a tray on the corner table and this can easily function as a side bar where you can entertain a few guests.
Sophisticated Dining
The dining room – though small – can still appear chic with the right colorful accents. Use metallic accents elsewhere to add an instant glam and to offer an amusing surprise when guests sit all around the table.
Table runners in blue and white can easily spruce up a small dining area. Use white slipcovers on the dining chair duo to create a cozy area of relaxation. If you can’t find a table runner that describes who you are, then have a beach towel or even a throw blanket be the charming alternative.
A basic update such as this can make any small place come alive.
Home Office Nook
Who says you can’t have a home office in a small habitat? Don’t let any extra space – no matter how small – go unused. A nook between two cabinets, for instance, can easily be transformed to a home office. Just place a small desk and a chair and you’re good to go.
Add Kitchen Storage
The usual kitchen cupboards are there to be the appealing yet functional storage units. These organized shelves can become the element that divides the kitchen from the cozy dining area. Adding a small divider turns the kitchen to an airy yet appealing space.
Uttermost Living Room Chahna Small Bench 23605
Everything Is Light
Making a space appear larger means you have to veer away from dark hues. You can have a focal wall in gray but make sure that you use a punch of color to offset the dark color. Then make sure that the rest of the space remains crisp, open and light.
Bathroom Storage
Use narrow shelves to store your bathroom essentials, in doing so, though, you make sure that they are stored in a stylish manner. Invest also in canisters that will hold cotton balls, cotton swabs and your lotions. Keep toiletries under a lovely vanity so that there would be no unsightly items in your small bathroom.
What about those wicker baskets? These can be placed as additional storage on the shelves or hidden inside cabinets.
Well-considered Window Treatments
Making a small living room appear to be more spacious is as easy as using a floor to ceiling window treatment. This may be a simple addition but it will draw the eyes up to the wall, hence, the mind will think that the room is seemingly larger.
Tags: decorating a small home, designing a small home, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, small home, small home design, small house
Posted in Apartment Living, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on When You Have a Cubicle for a Home
Monday, February 20th, 2017
The Hooker Furniture Dining Room Curata Wine Server is the marriage of brass and wood which is no less than the perfect pairing for ultimate sophistication.
Brass is an interior design element that has interested a lot of designers and homeowners over the years. It is an alloy that is made of zinc and copper in varying percentage. Modern brass is about 67% copper and just 33% zinc. Lead is also added commonly at about 2%. This addition improves brass’ machinability.
So what are the general uses of brass?
Brass can be used in the creation of some musical instruments, radiators, firearms cartridge casings, pipes, tubes, architectural trimming, screws and many decorative items.
Brass Properties
Brass comes with a bright, almost gold-like appearance. At times, it can appear as reddish-gold or it can also be silvery-white. If you love the look of rosy tones, then you have to look for brass that has a higher concentration of copper. Add more zinc and what is achieved is a more silvery item.
Brass is also highly malleable. This also exhibits a low amount of friction and melting point.
Brass can easily resist corrosion from salt water. It is very easy to cast, is not ferromagnetic and it is also easy to recycle because it’s not difficult to separate from other types of metals.
Brass vs. Bronze
Brass and bronze – to the untrained eye – can be quite similar. If brass is mainly copper and zinc, bronze is usually an alloy of copper and tin. Sometimes, the latter comes with other elements like phosphorus, manganese, aluminum and silicon.
Brass is also corrosion resistant just like bronze though the latter has a slightly higher melting point compared to the former.
Bronze is often used on sculptures, mirrors, ship fittings, springs and electrical connectors. Brass is used in plumbing, décor, musical instruments, locks, fittings and tools.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Woman On Verdigris Patina Brass Base 1060-051
Brass in Interior Design
Metals such as copper and brass – during the yesteryears – were used in the creation of many household items. These were strong items which lasted more than one lifetime. With the advent of technology, though, people began avoiding metals and started to use synthetic materials such as vinyl and plastics instead.
Plastic and vinyl may be a lot easier to mold but rich metals offer a look that’s difficult to match. Here are some ways that brass can be incorporated in your home –
Candle stand. You can have the look of an antique candle stand in your home. Use these candle stands on your mantel or on the dining table.
Bedframe. This is reminiscent of the 19th century. Brass bedframes can easily transform the look as well as the mood of any bedroom. It can be nostalgic or romantic, it can also be ultra-modern depending on your mood.
Mirror frame. Interior designers have often used brass mirror frames to signify a more traditional setting. Mirrors are known to make a space look bigger and the addition of brass as a frame makes this decorative item a lot more worthy to look at.
Curtain rod. This is a subtle way to add brass to your interior design. It can introduce an antique look at a safe distance.
Coffee table. This may be an uncommon use for brass but, when done properly, it is the perfect base for coffee table. The most common top for brass bases is transparent glass so the beauty of the metal is not hidden under any opaque material.
Lighting. Brass is also quite popular in the entire lighting industry. It is being used on desk lamps, bedside lamps, and pendant lighting.
The lamp base also becomes more chic with brass.
Cutlery. What could be more sophisticated than serving your guests with shiny brass cutlery? Add folded napkins, some candelabra, and chic china to complete the classy ensemble.
Tags: brass, brass elements, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Brass History, Properties and Its Role in Interior Design
Monday, February 20th, 2017
The Winslow Cocktail Table from the Cachet Collection of FFDM spells contemporary to a T.
Have you ever been confused about modern and contemporary furniture? Or are they the same to you? Let us clarify – once and for all – what these two interior designs and furniture styles really are. And to answer your confusion (if you ever were), they are not the same.
Modern design always refers to a period of time specifically in the 1920s till the 1950s. This is already a defined style while contemporary design is ever-changing. Contemporary means the style at the moment.
Modern vs. Contemporary Architecture
Architecture under this theme is anything that is currently being created. It is dynamic and without identity. It can be shabby chic at one point then it becomes Gothic at another. It is for this reason why this style is never tied to just one look.
Modern architecture, on the other hand, is a static style that has broken from the pre-Industrial Revolution designs. This is inevitably connected to the machine age and is generally categorized as anything that comes from the 20th century.
Modern architecture uses glass windows where the walls used to be. Corner windows can be glass. White stucco and whitewash are also big in modern style homes.
‘See any distinct right angles as well as flat roofs? They are there for a reason as these are inherent elements in modern design.
Contemporary architecture is often identified with solid walls as opposed to the whitewashed walls of the modern settings. Contemporary architecture – at the moment – has a boxy feel.
Cynthia Rowly for Hooker Furniture Gigi Settee is modern with its raised features and the wool rug paired to complete the look.
Modern vs. Contemporary Interiors
Modern, simply put, is anything that is Mid-century modern. You can recognize this look any day because of its clean and uncluttered interiors. Here, you are free to use leather, wood such as teak, and linen.
Plastic and molded plywood are also quite popular in modern settings. It is also common to see polished metal.
Modern furnishings are also raised from the floor. This means you should say no to sofa skirts and other ornate styles. Be simple, unadorned and unembellished and you can achieve the modern look more quickly than you think.
Furniture in modern homes are often raised from the floor. It also has an open space layout allowing for air to freely come and go. The walls are often white which add to the spacious look and feel.
Modern interiors also often have bare flooring and the only lines of demarcation are area rugs. These are made of wool and have a neutral color. The only hints of color are used in moderation.
Contemporary interior design means living and occurring. This refers to what is popular which means it can borrow a look from a certain era or it can be something fresh and new. An example is that art and furniture from the modern era are widely being used in many contemporary settings these days. Also, traditional moldings as well as millwork can also be incorporated in certain cases.
Contemporary style, at the moment, uses a lot of big windows. They also come in the oddest shapes which balance the open space layout that is common in such settings. The finishes use neutrals like stone, cedar or fir.
Finishing details come with ornate or clean lines – the choice is actually yours to make. Sustainability and comfort are also quite big in contemporary dwellings at the moment. Today, this may be referred to as West Coast contemporary but a decade or two from now, contemporary will be something else that’s entirely different.
A huge part of the confusion comes with the elements that are Mid-century modern which are being incorporated into contemporary homes.
Lastly, put emphasis on comfort if you want to have a contemporary setting. Be stylishly comfortable while adding aesthetic functionality still. Add throw pillows, artistic accessories, soft rugs and floor coverings to complete the look.
Tags: contemporary theme, contemporary vs. modern, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern theme, modern vs. contemporary
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Modern vs. Contemporary Furniture – Or Are They the Same?
Friday, February 17th, 2017
Winners Only Home Office 66 Inches Zahara Flat Top Desk GZ266F: Who says flowers can’t be presented as wallpaper?
Every 14th of February, in the U.S. and across the globe, flowers, chocolate and gifts are given to lovely ladies. All these are done in the name of Saint Valentine.
The Legend That Is St. Valentine
The history of this special day is tinged with both Roman and Christian traditions. But in order to truly understand how this day became such a hit among lovers, we have to know who St. Valentine really was.
Catholics recognize three saints in the name of Valentine or Valentinus. All three were martyred though there’s one legend where Valentine was the priest who served in Rome during the third century. Emperor Claudius II, unfortunately, sent single men off as soldiers because he believed that they are better at battle than those who have wives.
With this, Valentine started performing secret marriages for lovers. Not loving the defiance, Claudius had him put to death. There is another version wherein Valentine helped Christians in escaping from Roman prisons.
Flowers Galore
Since love is in the air, it’s time for you to give your home a little playful romantic ambience. You can express your affection through the decorative elements. The most popular, of course, are flowers and bouquets made with the most beautiful and colorful blossoms.
Pink ranunculus is an amazing Valentine’s Day gift and display. Every bloom varies in shade so even if you use just this one flower, you still achieve layering and depth because of the slightly different shades.
Pink blossoms can also be attached to branches using a hot glue. This can become an arrangement that you can use even after Valentine’s Day. Imagine all the months that it becomes a decorative piece in your living room – it’s just amazing.
Your options for floral arrangements can be displayed by the bedside, at the dining table, at the fireplace mantel, on the entryway credenza, the sofa, or the bed itself.
Lovin’ the Mantel
Surprise your loved one by dressing up the mantel. Use red pillar candles as well as candies inside decorative jars to decorate the mantel. Increase love in the air by adding a heart garland.
Bright colors can effectively make the mantel pop. Give love on V-day by painting chipboard letters. Spell L-O-V-E and paint it with red. If red is too cliché, use yellow with blue, pink and orange.
Another way to decorate the mantel is to frame a chalkboard with a love message. Have a flower arrangement right beside this plus add the bottles of wine, sweets and candles to complete the ensemble.
V-Day Wine
Give your loved one a date during this day and make sure you share a bottle of wine to celebrate your love. Wine is classy and is a great social tool.
Accessories Uttermost Cut Flower Bouquet Art 36108: A bouquet of flowers as a piece of art? Why not?
Say It with Red Furnishings
What a grander way to surprise your loved one than to invest in a red desk or a red chair? How about a red wall clock? The possibilities are endless.
Valentine’s Day is also shopping day for most people. And since furniture purchases are mostly planned especially during people’s favorite holidays, this is a great day to scout for the best deals.
Be creative. Buy a lovely red piece and see her eyes light up as you present the gift to her during this special day.
Sweeties
When bright cheery flowers are not the sight that would make your V-day special, then you’re one of the few who want something unique during this special day. You can also show a sweet gesture and give something literally sweet to your loved one.
Spell out your Valentine’s Day memo in cupcake frosting. You could choose to bake red velvet cupcakes, lavender pudding cakes, and other sweet desserts.
Here’s a link to the sweetest and most scrumptious Valentine’s Day cupcakes.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day decor, Valentine's Day decoration, Valentine's Day design
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on 5 V-Day Decorating Tips
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