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The Monochrome Home These Holidays

Saturday, November 3rd, 2018

What element broke the monotony in this room? If you answered the rich, wood flooring, then you’re correct. Featured here is the Brookston King Bed from Fine Furniture Design.

Most people try to counter the cold seasons by using warmer color palettes. You don’t have to be led down the same path. You can, instead, embrace the stark beauty that the upcoming winter season is about to offer.

Keeping a home white and neutral can make a dark space appear illuminated and spacious. And since autumn and winter are seasons that require you to shut the windows, then a monochromatic color palette will definitely work to your advantage.

Now here’s a word of caution; a monochrome home could easily look bland, too, so you have to know how to set up a white-walled home without making it appear this way.

Choose the Right Furniture

The first step in achieving a beautiful neutral home is to pick the right pieces of furniture. In the living room, for instance, the right couch, accent pieces, and chairs can complement even the whitest of white walls. Stick with off-white cotton or linen on your seat fabrics. The right amount of wood elements will balance the starkness.

Add a Dash of Color

Here and there, don’t be afraid to add a dash of color that will balance the whitewashed surroundings. While your chosen style is streamlined and clean, it won’t hurt to add a pop of color that will cap the look.

An example is to put brass or gold hardware in an all-white kitchen. The hanging pendants in that room, if well chosen, should provide the necessary welcoming ingredient to the whitewashed ambiance. 

Correct Lighting Only

The Boho chic room should have soft and romantic lighting. Nothing about it should be jarring, as this will only emphasize the unembellished theme that you’re setting up.

The Parisian bedroom is no longer just a dream. You can have this right in your own bedroom when you use twinkle lights along with a rustic wood headboard. Add a pair of warm-colored bed sconces and you have an intentionally stylish place of rest.

The Right Kind of White Please

You might think that whitewashing your home immediately means buying gallons of white paint. A monochrome home can have several layers of shades of the same neutral color.

When you still haven’t decided on the color that you would use to paint your room, be sure to pay attention to the lighting. A room that’s filled with natural light will naturally provide a warm tone. This is the room that needs the cool shades of white with gray or blue hues to balance the whiteness.

In the same manner, a smaller room that needs artificial lighting most hours of the day would benefit from the warmer shades of beige and creams.

Remember that white rooms can easily feel monotonous so know how to break up the zones by adding the correct textures and layers. Layering elements could be wooden logs, bricks, even that cozy area rug that you’ve been eyeing for the longest time.

Be Realistic

It pays to know your home. Not every shade or tint of white can work in your home. Of course, you still have to approach this project with a realistic mind. If your kitchen is a mess each time you end your cooking, then it would be a bad idea to have white walls there.

If you’re an art lover, then you can showcase a masterpiece on a blank wall. This can be that wide space right above the headboard or it can also be that spacious wall in the living room.

Whether you’ve decided to stage a Scandinavian space or just the cute shabby chic details, it’s really up to you. Just know that white is a wonderful canvas but it has the power to break your design scheme, too, so be very careful.

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And the Nesting Season Is On

Friday, November 2nd, 2018

These Humphrey Bogart pieces will look great in your reading nook this autumn and winter.

Is the winter season eager to unfold where you live? With the shorter daytime, this is the perfect moment to begin some serious planning for those nesting months. Yes, it’s time to light the hearth and just bond with your family indoors. With lots of cuddling and bonding moments ahead, it’s time to plan for activities that are meant to kill boredom.

Blockbuster Movies Galore

Now is the time to catch up in watching those blockbuster movies that you missed the previous summer. Now that you’re done sunbathing and gardening, there’s much time to spend snuggling and eating popcorn while enjoying all those exciting movies that you failed to watch.

Declutter then Redecorate

Once you’re caught up on your movies, it’s time to get serious and do some cleaning as well. Since you’re indoors anyway, you might as well take the time to check out the messy closets and all the nooks and crannies in your home.

Before you even commission a licensed electrician to check on your wiring systems if they’re ready for winter and before you even ask a plumber to look at your home’s plumbing system or before you check the roof, you should do the easy tasks first.

After decluttering, you can also move things around just to refresh the look in your home. Try hanging framed photos in different spots. You can also rearrange furniture or look for new design ideas on the Internet.

Get to Know Jane, Mary and William

Austen, Shelly and Shakespeare that is. Reading is one of the most wonderful things that you can do during winter. So just like your movie marathon, this is also the perfect time to catch up on your favorite novels and bestsellers.

And please don’t just read. This time, relish the moments by snuggling in your cozy and warm home. A mug of hot chocolate is also a must.

Plan the Garden

Winter is the best time to begin planning the upcoming year’s garden. Whether you’re going to plant a vegetable garden or a flowerbed this time, this cold season will help you dream about the colorful produce and flowers. Before you know it, spring will be on again and then getting those seedlings going would be late by then.

Plan Your Spring Getaway

Wintertime is also the best time to pick a destination for your spring vacay. You can book the flights as early as now so that you would be given the best fares. Spend the cold evenings researching travel sites and what destinations would best fit your schedule in spring.

Rest

Now when was the last time that you enjoyed a daytime nap? The human body needs to revitalize at night by having 8 or more hours of sleep (preferably). Those who get less than these end up with all sorts of unwanted health conditions.

It’s cold outside so just go ahead and take that midday nap in the coziest place in your home.

Enroll in a Class

Take advantage of your free time by learning something new. Even just a few hours of online tutorial or class can help you gain skills or enhance your existing know-how.

There are various online language classes to choose from and some arts and crafts DIY courses, too. Choose which one you would enroll in to while away the time this winter.

Camp In

If you have a fireplace in the living room, then it’s time to set up a campfire. Complete the activity with comfortable pillows, games, good storybooks, and snacks. This is also an amazing activity should the power go out.

Just relax in your pajamas and cozy up with those thick blankets.

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10-Minute Home Changes to Make Now

Thursday, November 1st, 2018

Uttermost Accessories Hoot Owl Figurines Set of 2, 18787

Are you itching to make changes around your home? Before you set out on a shopping expedition, make sure that you got the inspiration that you need for a fresh start. If you want more ideas, here are some that just might spark your imagination –

Buy Interior Design Books and Magazines

Even online websites (such as this one) that blog about the different styles and design tips are rich resources. You can cut out the pictures of styles that you want and have them framed.

These framed cutouts will serve as the 10-minute change that you need. A series of artsy photos hung on a blank wall is the accent wall that’s awesome to look at. The right photographs would even serve as the conversation starters for your many social gatherings.

Repurpose Vases and Jars

Who says vases are just meant to hold flowers? And instead of overcrowding your cupboard with multiple vases, have them repurposed as necklace and bracelet holders.

And when you’re running out of space for your office supplies, just open some jars and put your pens there. What used to be a decorative jar is now a home office penholder or a paintbrush holder.

The role of the revamped jar does not stop here. Jars can also be repurposed as laundry soap holders or button storage jars.

Throws Are Life

What do you usually do with your throws? Many are used to just placing them at the foot of the bed. Some are placed on chairs or simply thrown to the floor. How about giving your throws a new life by wrapping them together with loose cushions of a sofa?

A variety of throws and pillows can easily revive a neglected and tired sectional. Combine and arrange pillows that you already have. Or, better yet, buy new ones that would surely increase the level of style in your home.

Swap the Furniture Pieces

The smaller furniture pieces can be swapped from room to room. Pieces like a stool, side tables and slipper chairs are the best mobile pieces to take from one room to the next.

The mudroom does not have to be boring. You can take an upholstered chair there for a luxurious change.

Decorate Your Bookshelves

Don’t think of bookshelf decluttering as a boring activity. With the colder nights ahead, it’s time to rearrange the books in your shelves and cabinets. Make this into a fun activity for the family by rearranging them according to their color or sizes. If you’re having a librarian’s spirit, then you can go ahead and classify them according to their topic.

‘Talk of declutter, you might as well level up your cleanup activity by going through your home office as well. Look for torn papers and envelopes, crumpled bills, even those old coupons. Take 10 minutes to clean up and then polish your office desk.

If you don’t have a system yet, it’s time to plan one and then assign bins and drawers for your documents and paperwork.

Clusters of Three

What easier way is there to redecorate your home than to group objects in threes?

Objects that are arranged in clusters of three are a visual arrangement that screams well-planned display. This power of three is not your random décor but a willful act of creating a visual delight.

When grouping, say, vases, don’t automatically group them according to their materials. It is okay to group glass vases with an interesting ceramic vase. To maximize the decorative effect, make sure to combine according to widths or lengths, too.

As for your colorful ceramics, go ahead and display them – they are meant to be enjoyed.

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The Holiday Sunroom – How to Set Up the All Season Space

Wednesday, October 31st, 2018

The Summer Home Dining Room Collection will look perfect in a sunroom/breakfast nook.

One of the greatest ways to increase square footage in one’s home is to build a sunroom. This is a space that supports leisure and fun and is an oft-used zone in any home. Before you set out this retreat, though, here are some features that you might want to consider first –

Comfy Seats

The ultimate sunroom is sort of a second living room to your home. It should not automatically mean wicker pieces. It is also possible to bring in upholstered seats there, some throws, huge pillows, even tables and indoor-outdoor rugs.

The best sunrooms are also fitted with electrical outlets that will be able to support table and floor lamps for those cozy reading-worthy nights.

Temperature Controls

Many sunrooms already have their own air conditioning and heating systems. It won’t hurt to install a ceiling fan, too, or to have a fireplace especially for utilization during those chilly nights.

Shades

The sunroom can get sunny – like really sunny. Even when you did think of installing quality doors and windows, complete with insulation and all that, this space can still get a little warm.

This is where shades and curtains come in. Hang sheer curtains during summer and thicker drapes during winter.

Multiple Purposes

Ideally, the sunroom is there as a seating or lounging area for the whole family and for some occasional guests. Bring in a dining table and some seats to go along with it and people are surely to spend more time there, more frequently. This can become the breakfast nook or the dining hub for those nights when you’re not feeling up for a formal dinner.

The sunroom can also be used as an open home office. Just be sure to put a supportive chair there, a viable Wi-Fi connection plus a desk that comes at the right height and you’re good.

You get a great view of the outdoors so working and being productive becomes a lot more fun.

Naturally, the sunroom is an entertainment hub. So if you’re holding a large dinner soon, consider this area as your venue. Here, you’ll have ample lighting, air circulation and table space so the dinner’s sure to be a huge hit. Plus the kitchen is just nearby so getting food and beverages is a breeze.

‘Feeling whimsical? The sunroom can also be used as a display space for some of your collectibles. Here, you can also set up a sewing machine for your new hobby, add a few drawers and you’ve got the perfect craft room that’s bright and airy.

What’s a sunroom without the ultra-comfy rug? Here’s the beautifully-neutral Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Seabreeze Blocks Rug3546RS03110506750.

Winterizing the Sunroom

Now that you know the different functions that a sunroom can have, it’s time to create a space that can be used throughout the year.

The sunroom is not usually engineered to be cooled or heated 24/7. However, with an electric fireplace or any other heating source, it can be used during the colder seasons.

Temperature control is a must for a four-season sunroom. Find out whether you need a cooling unit or a heating system or even both.

Interlocking the sliding door sashes can also be an added protection against the elements. The glass that you use on the windows can also make a huge difference on how the sunroom can withstand the changing climates.

Double-pane glass windows won’t darken the sunroom yet they can help retain heat during winter and keep the room cool during summer. Compared to the single-pane windows, the double panes improve the performance of any heating or cooling unit.

You may also want to speak with a licensed electrician about tying up the sunroom’s HVAC system to that of your house. When this is done, the sunroom will surely be an amazing extension of your home.

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Start a Collection Hobby Now

Tuesday, October 30th, 2018

Fine Furniture Design Highlands Collection piece.

People are natural collectors. Many of us collect in order to preserve memories while others do it for fun. Both of these reasons point to a person’s passion towards things that are old, special or both.

If you’re aching to have your own collection soon but still don’t know how to begin, then these cool ideas just might spark your interest –

Skeleton Keys

Or just about any type of unique keys that are made of steel or any kind of metal can be a collector’s starting point. Antique keys don’t just stand the test of time but they are also an inexpensive way to begin your collecting hobby.

Plus these keys look really great in Instagram photos.

Believe it or not, antique keys are easy to find. These are those pieces that are dated pre-19th century. They are either barrel, flat or the skeleton type. The most coveted, of course, is the skeleton key because of its history and ornate design.

Compared to other collectible items, ancient keys are a bit easier to get a hold of. These are found in many thrift shops and charity stores, even garage sales. There are also auctions and online sites that sell them.

Historically, it is agreed that the lock and key were invented in China and in Ancient Egypt roughly in 4000 BC. These locks and keys were made of iron or wood. By the time of the conquests of the Roman Empire, great riches had to be protected, hence, more keys and locks needed to be manufactured.

To check your first collectible, be sure to refer to the color, shape, tarnishing, and its weight. Antique barrel keys come with a hollow, short shaft and the signature rounded edge. These weigh less than skeleton keys because they are hollow.

An antique skeleton key, on the other hand, has elaborate decorations and will open just about any antique lock. The more embellished and older this key is, the rarer it is and, therefore, more valuable. The pre-1700 keys are much more in demand and are fewer in number.

Rocks

Now how about a rock collection? It’s easy to begin this kind of collection, just take a walk around the neighborhood and find some pieces straightaway. Find rocks that look good to you. You can also hike with the whole family and start finding special rocks in riverbeds and streams, beaches, and even up on the hills.

Begin by cleaning the rocks with plain water and dish soap. You can also submerge them in diluted household bleach for two days if you want to remove heavy grit. Wash the rocks with warm water after then air dry.

You can organize your rocks according to their rock type (igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic) or their color. Others group their favorite pieces together while others like to organize by size. You can also label each rock by the place where they were found.

Imagine your vinyl collection housed in this Century Furniture Dining Room Salem Credenza…it’s sublime.

Action Figures

Who can forget the sheer happiness that one felt when you got your very first action figure? And now that you’re an adult, what’s to stop you from seeking your fave action figures and building your collection?

Other Collectibles

Other common collectibles include snow globes, ancient coins especially the Greek and Roman ones, and vinyl records. Find your vibe and seek out the things that are valuable to you.

Discovering old or new collectibles is truly awesome.

Display Your Collection

Once you’ve bought and even cleaned your collectibles, it’s time to display them and show them to the world. Find a glass display case where you can show them off and where you can also enjoy seeing them each day.

The story behind each collectible is an awesome conversation starter for every social gathering that you’ll soon hold.

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Vintage Style in Today’s World

Friday, October 26th, 2018

Bedroom Headboard Only Wesley Allen Frame HO/WAF1364: To what era do you think this bedroom piece belongs? 

These days, when you ask people to define vintage, what they would automatically think about is old or anything dated. The experts, though, know that none can be farther from the truth. Vintage interior design is there to make people reminisce and be nostalgic.

When you see a style that looks anywhere from the glamorous ‘40s till the ‘60s, then you’re seeing vintage in all its glory. The elements are obviously luxurious and the blend of colors are truly inviting.

Don’t be pressed to go for the perfect and finished style. Instead, mix and match the different pieces and styles. Here are some ideas that can jumpstart your vintage interior design –

Yes to Balance

Know that vintage interior design can get tricky. While this is one of the hardest to set up, a lot of people still want to use this design in their homes all because they want to recreate the elegance that is synonymous of the eras of the past. Go wrong with it, though, and you could end up with an unstylish replica of your Grandma’s house.

Always consider balance. The right kind of vintage look is one that has equalized both traditional and modern looks.

Old Pieces as Backbone

Vintage pieces are the backbone of this style. Whether your favorite decade is the ‘40s or the ‘60s, well-chosen vintage or – at the very least – vintage-looking pieces are the elements that will fortify your vintage style.

The look that you’re trying to recreate is one that will transport the guests to an era where contemporary pieces simply won’t defeat.

If you’re thinking that your Grandma’s antique pieces automatically qualify as default furnishings, think again. Just because a piece looks old doesn’t mean that it can go with the rest of the design. The vintage pieces that you use must be in great condition and must still be able to withstand the daily wear and tear.

To know whether the old piece will do, check its weight. See if the natural materials used are those that were specially crafted and not mass-produced. Check also the joints.

Are they still sturdy? The moment the joineries feel shaky or if the wood is already rotten, don’t use the piece anymore.

If there is too much discoloration or rust – the type that can no longer be dealt with – then it’s time for furniture replacement.

Define the Focal Point

As soon as you find vintage pieces that already suit the style that you’re trying to use, then consider how these can be made the focal points of your home. A focal piece is one that immediately draws the beholder’s eye towards it. More often than not, the right candidate is a piece of furniture.

Allow the focal furniture to take center stage. For instance, the dining room often has the dining table as the star while in the living room, the default focal piece is the couch. When you go to the bedroom, then what could be better than a vintage-looking bed to pull all the other design elements together?

Add Other Vintage Details

Finally, it pays to seriously consider the patterns and colors that will be used in a vintage interior design. Use some polka dots and you will immediately be transported to the 1950s. Display some deep shades of red and your guests will surely think that you’re recreating the Victorian era.

Knowing how to add the right vintage elements in the design comes with a large payoff even with just a minimal effort. Take the time to research on your preferred era then get a sense of the design elements that they used then. Try to create a mental picture of what you would want to copy.

If you don’t have existing pieces of the era that you choose, then visit our shop for the finest vintage-inspired pieces and you would never go wrong.

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Goin’ Hygge for the Holidays

Thursday, October 25th, 2018

TheAmerican Leather Living Room Recliner Chair AST-REC-ST spells comfort and simplicity to a T.

The nights of fall are ever drawing closer to the even colder winter evenings. Your days are going to get more hectic so your nights have to be restful to compensate for the eventful mornings and afternoons. Did you know that the Danes have been listed as one of the happiest people in the world? They all attest to one thing – hygge.

The whole point of hygge is living a lifestyle of warmth and calm. Pronounced as hue-gah or hoo-gah, this is the term used by Norwegians to describe wellbeing. This is the way of life of the Danish.

Hygge began in the 18th century. This appeared in the writings of that time and has long since remained as a wonderful lifestyle embraced by many.

Hygge transcends winters through summers, although, it becomes an even more apparent style when the cold season is at its peak. The power of this style is able to downplay the bleak, dark winters as it has made happy people out of those that do not see the rays of the sun for a long time.

Often referred to as togetherness or coziness, it is not the literal translation of the Danish term, though. No English word can aptly describe it, hence its meaning is a bit hazy.

What the world knows is that hygge is a mood or feeling more than anything else. This can also be used as a state of mind, too. It can be used to describe a warm bath one moment, then it can be the style of a home on the next instance.

You can also be hygge when you’re enjoying a mug of hot cocoa while curled up and reading your favorite novel. Hygge also means intimacy. It can also be a social event or gathering for the family.

Since hygge is all about being warm and cozy, it’s a must to choose your lighting fixture well. TheUttermost Lamps and Lighting Brant Aged Brass 8 Light Chandelier 21316 is one such choice.

How to Hygge

Invest in a lot of candles. It is believed that Scandinavian countries including Denmark, of course, are the biggest consumers of candles annually. Whether you prefer scented or unscented, it really doesn’t matter. But Skandinavisk, a Danish brand, has come up with a hygge fragrance with hints of baked strawberry cakes, brewed tea, rose petals, and even wild mint.

The next step is to add textures. Warmth and coziness are instantly added to a habitat when the eyes see soft textures and if the hands feel the lushness of fabrics. Imagine adding knitted cushions, fluffy woolen rugs, and fur throws – these are capable of stylizing your home while providing the needed comfort.

Add a roaring fire in the furnace and some soft candle lights and you’ve set up the perfect hygge.

The third concept that you must remember is that the simple things are welcome in a Danish home. There is no pressing need to overhaul your home. Just treat yourself to an afternoon tea, immerse in a bubble bath or create a gallery of your favorite paintings and you’ve just achieved hygge, too.

The fourth step is to update your clothing. Invest in loose tops, onesies, harem trousers, and just about any comfortable piece of clothing. The more relaxed you are when wearing the clothes, the more that you should seriously consider it to become a part of your wardrobe.

Hygge also means being with friends and enjoying a social gathering. Whether this is a simple dinner or a more complex party, the idea is to have fun while eating wholesome foods.

Plan all those winter nights when you would gather together your family or your friends in front of the fireplace. Now don’t think that hygge is all about staying indoors. You can still wear warm clothing and circle roundabout the fire pit – this, too, is very much a hygge experience.

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The Holistic Minimalist

Wednesday, October 24th, 2018

Notice the straight and simple lines of thisAmerican Leather Bedroom California King Bed MEN-BED-CK.

Minimalism is a word that is recently taking the world by storm. This carries with it a lot of ironies since it means living in a stressful world but with less stuff.

Books, documentaries, and podcasts have all been raving about minimalism and how it can actually alter the life of someone who is willing to free-fall.

A lot of minimalists swear by the philosophy of living a life that’s free from excess and worldly possessions. They testify on how having less stuff actually gave their lives more meaning.

It’s No Fad: The Benefits of Minimalism

You may think that minimalism is just a millennial fad but it is a lot more than this. When done with the right reasons, it is a means to make your life more significant.

So what are the benefits of living a minimalist life?

First, those who sign up to live a minimalist life get rid of their financial worries. They also get rid of all forms of clutter in their lives. They learn how to classify the things that they really need from the things that do not add value to their existence.

Minimalists also spend more time on experiences and less time in the acquisition of material things. Eventually, they feel a lot happier and freer. 

Minimalism Means Green

Minimalists also sign up to become green enthusiasts. In fact, sustainable living or green living is equated to minimalism. Green living means buying less and having less waste.

Minimalism also means seeing consumerism for what it is. This has contributed to the issues on earth’s climate and other such problems. If you want to live ethically, then minimalism is the best way to go.

Stanley Furniture Living Room Floating Parsons Console Table 704-45-05

Start Now

So how do you begin living a minimalist life?

First, learn to reduce, reuse, and recycle. You must say no to excessive purchases. You must also promise to decrease the amount of waste that your home produces. And you must swear to recycle and reuse stuff. Composting is something that you also say yes to.

As a minimalist, you must also unplug. Save energy and money when you unplug those electronic devices that consume electricity even when they are just plugged.

Assess your possessions. Find something that you will keep (this is typically something that you will use in the next three months). If you pick an object that you won’t use continuously in the next three months, then it’s okay to finally let go.

This 90-day test is far from easy, though. For instance, you may not use your book collection in the next three months but this does not mean that you should let throw or sell them straightaway.

Another tip here is to live in a smaller place. More probably, you won’t need a big apartment with less stuff. Plus, studio apartments and condo units are a lot cheaper than renting a huge house. Tiny homes are quite popular these days so it’s time to join the bandwagon.

Smaller units also require fewer utilities. Just compare the heating needs of a bungalow with that of a studio apartment.

Another step in minimalism is to buy fresh food weekly. Always buy in bulk so that you’d save more.

Own less furniture, clothing, and appliances, too. This means owning the pieces that are right. Always prioritize quality over quantity.

Buy a laptop that will last a number of years; this has to be a piece that won’t have you worried that it could break down any time. As for clothing, buy the pieces that will also last many years. These are the staple pieces such as a pair of jeans, a few shirts, and a pair of boots.

As for furniture, find the pieces that have multiple uses (e.g. an ottoman that is also a storage unit).

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Fallin’ for Eclectic

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2018

Thomasville Bedroom Etienne Iron Bed (California King) 85019-557

It’s Fall. It’s the perfect season to infuse an eclectic design to your home. While the rest of the world may be intimidated by this style – don’t. You can unleash your creative side and create a space that’s all too dreamy for others to even venture into.

Okay, don’t think that eclectic interior design is all about mixing a lot of designs with a whole lot of different interior design elements. Even a stylish person can become a fashion victim if she’s not careful. Eclectic style does not require an impeccable sense of fashion so don’t fret.

The best eclectic pieces celebrate harmony even in the differences in textures, styles, and colors. There are a few tricks, though, that can help make these varying elements cohesive. Here are some basic guides –

No to Sets

The initial step in eclectic interior design is to resist the temptation to buy furnishings as a unit. While buying furniture in sets can cut your shopping time in half, still, this is the straight line towards a showroom like home.

Do not coordinate your pieces, instead, find varied styles and vibes especially with your larger furniture pieces. If you’re a bit uncertain because you have always done pairings with your furniture, then do not worry. You will still be able to unify the pieces with some underlying methods.

Go ahead and fuse different accent chairs but those with related color families. Using more furniture to connect the different pieces is also an effective strategy.

Plan Your Color Palette

Don’t think that eclectic design is supposed to throw all guidelines in picking colors. Your color chart still has a purpose. What you will need is a deliberate and well-chosen color scheme that will harmonize all the mixture of genres and styles in your home.

If you still want to play it safe, then go ahead and pick a single color palette but one that comes in different shades. The shades will give your room ample variety so that it won’t look like one solid block of color that hit your guests in the head.

‘Tempted to go wild? Then don’t hold back. Pick a feature that will pull all the hues in the room (e.g. a Persian rug as an accent wall), then find accents that will all ground this one piece.

Different Eras In One Style

The furniture pieces that you eventually pick for your home must be diverse enough. Pair that modern desk with an Art Deco chair. Go rustic but, at the same time, Parisian – now ain’t that sublime?

The twist in eclectic interior design is knowing how to fuse two different eras and styles to achieve a stylish room.

Thomasville Accessories Butterfly Mirror 85037-255

Texture Is Life

If you’re in an eclectic space, then you have to remember to make sense of the chaos. Add layers without creating heavy aesthetics. You must learn to create just enough visual layers from sleek pieces, velvet bedding, mud cloth, natural hide, and wallpaper.

These different textures create an amazing impact while limiting the palette. If you want to establish a more masculine look, then pair dark metals with exposed bricks and other such natural elements.

If you’re feeling more experimental, use lacquered pieces with velvet and other plush fabrics. It is also not wrong to mix rough with smooth textures. These opposing looks will add visual and tactile interest.

Now don’t forget to use a single texture many times. Use it in different rooms to, once again, achieve a cohesive look.

Eclectic Means YOU

The whole point of eclectic interior design is making a space that suits and describes you. So go ahead and keep the stuff personal. Fuse all the colors and textures that you love because, at the end of the day, these will make you happy.

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Zen In and Out

Monday, October 22nd, 2018

Marge Carson Living Room Zen Sectional

We all live in a stressful world. This lack of genuine tranquility in people’s lives is one of the reasons why more and more homeowners want to create a habitat that does not need an airfare to go to. The Zen interior design has principles that have increasingly been used by many homeowners.

Why could this be?

The word Zen, itself, is in reference to meditation. The Japanese use this term when they are also referring to relaxation, balance, and harmony.

Zen may not be a widely recognized interior design but it does have its own audience. There are also rules to follow with this sort of style. This is also a style that is linked with purity, minimalism, and living a simplistic life.

If you fancy having a Zen home, then here are some rules to commit to memory –

Earthy Hues Only Please

The Zen-inspired style is all about the use of natural hues and soft tones. Use a lot of grays, white, shades of beige, a touch of pink beige, and other such soft hues. These colors are soft enough to induce calmness.

It is important to consider chromatic harmony between all the design elements. Be careful also in establishing visual seamlessness especially between the furniture, flooring, and the walls.

You also need to fuse a dominant color with textured fabrics like moleskin, for instance. Don’t be afraid to create diversity by fusing two matching hues. Play also with a degradation of your favored color. 

Lots of Natural Light

If you want to set up a truly relaxing home, then discard all the harsh lights that are currently displayed. Have these replaced with the most calming lights such as candles or nature-inspired lighting fixtures.

Set up various sources of light so that you can control the amount of intensity on different areas. Never project a direct light from your ceiling. Be sure to take advantage of wide windows in letting in ample sunlight.

Bare Furniture

Straight, simple lines characterize Zen furnishings. These pieces do not come with excessive ornamentation but each has a high quality. The materials that were used to manufacture these pieces are all natural. This also brings a sense of relaxation and warmth to your Zen home.

As for the storage pieces such as the cupboards, closets, and drawers, these can look livelier when they match the color of the interior.

The Zen Bedroom

Since the bedroom is the most naturally Zen among all the rooms in your home, you should concentrate in designing this. Begin by placing the bed closest to the natural source of light but never place it right in front of a passage area.

The bed’s height must be one that you’re comfortable with, although, higher beds tend to feel more comfy. Choose upholstered or leather.

Never over decorate your bedroom. You may use fleece, wool or mohair as covers. Throws are allowed but remember not to exaggerate. Find pillows with different sizes.

Be sure to invest on an armchair if your reading nook is also in your bedroom. This has to be a super comfy seating unit that still comes with the simple lines that are the ultimate requirement to every Zen home. 

Few Ornaments

For your wall décor, the rule is also the same – keep it simple. Never create a gallery of paintings or framed photographs when you can just actually hang a single piece. If you can, cover your book collection with monochromatic paper.

Add Scents

You can also enhance the Zen feel in your home by enhancing each room with natural scents. Ylang Ylang and Lavender are popular calming scents.

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