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Saturday, October 6th, 2018
Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Marinot, 12Lt. Chandelier 21298
If you’ve recently redecorated your home and the project involved stripping the walls of old wallpaper, then the dirt and dust might have found their way to your chandelier. So how do you clean those plaster dust and wallpaper particles? ‘Time to give your lighting fixture a lot of lovin’.
There are two known methods of chandelier cleanup. The first one is the Glass Off and the other is Glass On.
Glass On is a method that makes use of a damp cloth to wipe down the decorative elements while the fixture is still attached to the frame. The Glass Off type requires that the hanging elements are taken off of the fixture and then cleaned piece by piece. Each of the cleaned pieces is then reattached after they have been polished.
If you’re thinking of spraying some solutions directly to the chandelier, hold your horses. There are cleaning solutions that can easily damage the non-crystal parts of your lighting fixture.
For now, let’s learn about the two types of cleaning methods.
The Glass Off Method
If you choose to clean your chandelier using the glass off method, then you will be better able to clean the parts. It can get difficult to clean a swinging chandelier for those who clean it with the Glass On method. This is especially dangerous when you’re cleaning a chandelier that’s installed high up on a very high ceiling.
If you’re cleaning up to resurrect a vintage or an antique fixture, then it is best to work with a ladder. As soon as you acquire this, turn the circuit breaker off. If this is not possible at the moment, then turn off the switch to the chandelier. Use a large tape to cover the switch just as an added precaution.
Check the chandelier since you will be removing many hanging elements and you will also replace them after the cleanup. Remove every section that you see and make a mental note (if not a physical note) on how to put them all back. You might also want to take a photo of the chandelier from different angles. This is for reference later on.
A grimy or dusty chandelier will not be as brilliant or sparkly as a new one. You can recapture the shine by taking the time to clean the lighting fixture, step by step.
The Glass On Method
This chandelier cleaning method is best in removing light dust and dirt. This can be done every two to six months, also depending on the room conditions where the chandelier has been placed.
Here, there is no need to remove the crystals. Switch off the power to the lighting fixture, though. Just make sure that all the bulbs are screwed on tightly to their sockets.
Protect the fixture from any water by covering them with sandwich bags. You can also use rubber bands to tie all around the bases. Next, place one towel on the floor right below the fixture. This should help absorb the drips coming from the cleaning spray.
There are cleaning solutions that you can buy from shops or you can just go ahead and make the cleaner. One part of ammonia should be mixed with three parts of distilled water. This solution won’t leave water marks as compared to just using tap water.
An alternative to this is a hot soapy water solution. Others use one part of isopropyl alcohol together with three parts of distilled water.
Whatever solution you end up using, make sure that you spray all the surfaces except the wire and electrical parts. let the solution drip off then rinse off using distilled water. You can also just wipe them off with cotton cloth if you don’t want to wait for the solution to drip.
Tags: chandelier, chandelier cleanup, how to clean chandeliers, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | Comments Off on Chandelier Cleanup 101
Friday, October 5th, 2018
This room is green because it has wide, open windows and it features this Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Hibiscus Round Accent Table 593-953.
Green home is a term that could mean so many different things. There are those who consider a home green only if the Energy Star standards have been met. There are those, however who don’t just depend on certifications in order to define a certain home green.
Generally, though, a green home is one that uses less energy. This is also one that’s been built using sustainable materials. And with the leading U.S. wastes already including non-industrial wastes such as demolition and construction wastes, it’s about time that green builders take center stage.
Find the Alternatives
The bulky building materials that are often used in many construction projects throughout the nation comprise the biggest carbon footprint. There is chance, though, because green builders, are seeking ways to give more options. They are now presenting materials that are recycled, locally sourced, reused, durable, and renewable.
The wisest homeowners have taken heed. From the usual aluminum window frames, there are now those that choose local wood as a material. The rapidly growing bamboo plant is also now highly favored among Zen enthusiasts.
It’s All About Energy Efficiency
Now let’s talk about greenhouse gas emissions. It is wrong to presume that only industrial plants emit these harmful gases. Even households can contribute to the problem and U.S. households have been very busy.
There are homeowners who take part in saving Mother Earth by installing only the energy efficient appliances. There are also those who now use solar panels. Yet energy efficiency isn’t the only thing that can make homes sustainable. Zero energy homes could still use steel, concrete and bricks on an environmentally sensitive area and then they become unsustainable in the process.
Consider the Location, Too
Green homes are also often built on developed lands. This is so the environmental impact is reduced if not totally brought down to zero. There is nothing green about sprawl because they eat up a lot of green space.
Another way to consider your home a green home is to build it in close proximity to your school or work so that you won’t have to spend a lot of energy on transportation.
Plant Shade Trees
Planting deciduous trees on all sides of your home will provide the maximum amount of shade. You just need to carefully plan as well as design where the trees would be specifically planted.
Going green through tree planting is another good way to save energy all year round. Imagine a cool home even during summer. And during the coldest months, these trees can also help your home weather the winter winds. You then reduce the heating cost.
Once you’ve decided to plant shade trees, it is best to inspect all around your home first. Determine which walls and windows receive the most amount of sunlight. The east and west sides should be provided with shade since these sides receive 50% more light compared to their south and north counterparts.
Be sure to plant these trees close to your house so that they will have ample room to grow out to their full height and also for proper air circulation. A tree that’s been planted 10 feet away from your house wall will eventually shade that area four times longer than one that’s been planted 20 feet away.
If you have limited space to plant trees, then you can always go for shrubs and vines. Use trellises to shade the walls as well as the windows. Examples of vines that will provide you with year-round shade is the Confederate Jasmine.
Design and Size Also Matter
Yes, size does matter because bluntly put, bigger homes have a larger physical footprint. It is essentially more difficult to maintain a 5,000 sq. ft. home compared to a 1,500 sq. ft. one.
As for the design, it is best to go for the already energy efficient ones such as the passive solar or passive houses.
Tags: green home, green living, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, sustainable home
Posted in Green Living, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Do You Have A Green Home?
Thursday, October 4th, 2018
Featured plants are the Uttermost Accessories Moth Orchid Planter 60039 and the Accessories La Costa Greenery, Set/3 60115.
Do you have the feeling, at times, that you can’t quite put your finger on what’s missing in your home? Are you wondering whether your habitat needs a unique décor? One way to do this is the traditional way of decorating with plants.
But caring for these plants causes a concern for most homeowners and this is a valid feeling. If you think that you can’t find more time for plant care, then you can always go for the low maintenance types.
Here are some ways that you can spruce up your home without the houseplants eating up your time and energy –
Know Their Benefits
Sometimes, all it takes to change your feelings toward plant care is to know their countless benefits. First, these green things are great in improving the energy and wellness in your home.
Second, plants are also aesthetically pleasing. They have amazing colors that never fail to captivate. They are also awesome air purifiers. Elementary science tells us that plants absorb the carbon dioxide that humans breathe out. They then give out oxygen, which humans need to breathe.
Other than air purification, plants are also known to improve man’s mental health, increase the humidity in a room, and reduce stress and fatigue.
Choose the Best Houseplants
When you’ve decided to incorporate houseplants to your interior décor, then begin with the low-maintenance type first, and just one potted plant would do, initially.
Snake plants and spider plants are wonderful choices for people who want to begin with easy maintenance plants. When you’re already looking for color sources, then look for succulents and houseplants.
Versatile flowering plants include chrysanthemums, Gerber daisies, orchids, and mums. The Chinese evergreen is a green and red plant that can be used as a perfect Christmas décor.
Here’s a word of caution, though – most flowering plants need a lot of care. They are worth your time and energy, though, since their beauty will surely captivate you. African violets and Bromeliads are also common choices in many homes because they are beautiful to behold.
Bring In Succulents
If you’re searching for an even smaller option, then you can always go for succulents. These are the houseplants that require the least amount of light. They also come in different shapes and sizes and you won’t have to worry whether they will thrive inside a room or not – because they will.
Succulents are best placed on shelves, on tables, and on the windowsills. Examples of succulents are aloe vera, hens-and-chicks ,and cacti.
Display Tall Houseplants
When you’re looking for a houseplant that can fill up a narrow corner or space, then you should look for a tall houseplant variety. Most of these thin and tall plants are also varieties that do not require a lot of light.
Expect for these to be a bit pricier than your usual houseplant, though. You will also need a special potholder or a plant stand to complete the plant’s look. The best examples of this plant type are Ficus, Philodendron, and Area palms.
Bamboo houseplants are also low-maintenance but stylish. Bamboo is also an amazing accent piece. Just make sure that it does not get direct sunlight or it will be in danger of being killed. Check also that the plant’s distilled water is changed every month. Find a vase or dish that can show off this amazing plant.
Show Off the Big-Leafed Plants
Today, these plants share the limelight with other trending interior design elements. Large leaf houseplants need tropical environment and care. These are the best additions to a contemporary or minimalist home.
Shop for a dieffenbachia or a monstera. These are the hottest large-leaf plants at the moment.
Tags: decorating with houseplants, houseplant benefits, houseplant decor, houseplant options, houseplants, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Color Schemes, Decorative Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Houseplants: Home Beautification Must-Haves
Wednesday, October 3rd, 2018
Orient Express Furniture Bedroom Trellis Double Dresser 6047.SW
Whether this is your first or last year in college, you should not stop thinking of ways to beautify your dorm room. After all, this is going to be your home for quite some time. And just like any home, the style must also change now and then. Add to this that you’re decorating a small space so you have more aspects to consider.
It’s true. There are specific challenges in designing small dorm rooms. You have to think about the space being a place for sleep, study, entertainment and relaxation. And don’t forget your roommate who might or might not share your taste in design.
So here are some tips on how to make your dorm room redesigning more fun –
Personalize It
Do not be afraid to rearrange especially when the layout became different over the summer. Try something different. Rearrange by putting two desks or by moving your drawer to a different spot. You can also put your bed by the window (if you still have not tried this).
You could also cover one wall with removable wallpaper and turn this into an accent wall. Alternatively, a good way to add brightness and a sense of space in your dorm room is to hang mirrors. If you’re not allowed to drill holes in those walls, then just go for the peel-and-stick type of mirror installers.
If there are also some undesirable pieces in that small space, then what are you still waiting for? ‘Time to let them go; they’ll only add to your stress.
Use Only Dual to Multi-Functional Furniture
Since you have already probably recognized that small spaces can be quite challenging to design. Your first concern is to make room for all the things that you need. A good way to resolve this is to find multiple ways that you can use a single furniture.
That small table, for instance, can be a great space to entertain your visitors but an ottoman can also be a table, a storage space, and a seating unit. This makes it a wonderful furniture option for a small space such as a dorm room.
Even having the top of your drawer turned to a vanity can help you save a lot of space.
Add a Letterboard
Who says whiteboards and corkboards are the only way to leave notes to your roommate? Say goodbye to these traditional methods and use letterboards instead. Hang yours on the wall so that it won’t take up much space.
Ward Off Unwanted Odors
A good way to deal with unwanted odors is to use essential oil diffusers. Essential oil particles are produced from the distilled or extracted plant parts such as leavers, flowers, roots, bark ,peels, and resin. The concentrated oils contain the most potent healing compounds of certain plants.
A drop of these essential oils can provide a lot of health benefits including balanced hormones, a healthy immune system, and a working digestive system, to name a few. Ginger essential oil is a good example of an essential oil that can ease indigestion, ulcers, and constipation.
Clip ‘Em Photos
You can also hang frames on your dorm wall but that can be taxing to do. For a different take on photo presentation, why not try to set up a photo clip panel instead? This way, you can just directly attach your photos the moment that you’re ready to display them.
Display Succulents
Include more greenery in your home. Try succulents instead of the usual leafy options.
Succulents and cacti are low maintenance plants that can help you breathe better as they also release oxygen just like their leafy counterparts. They are also capable of lifting your mood by up to 15%.
Succulents also have the power to heal wounds because they are antiseptic.
Uttermost Accessories Sea Coast Succulents 60116: Feel refreshed each time you look at these.
Tags: college dorm room design, dorm room style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Dorm Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Timeless Dorm Room Designs
Tuesday, October 2nd, 2018
Bernhardt Interiors Bedroom Bachelor’s Chest 375-230 is made with cast resin in chalky white finish. Included are stick-on plastic bumpers for the table bottom.
Many kitchens in today’s homes use plastic containers for storage and food organization. Of course, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using plastic. The role of a homeowner now is to weigh the pros and cons so he can eventually decide whether it’s best to use plastic containers or not.
Plastic Advantages
There are some advantages to using plastics. First, they are quite durable because they were mainly designed to withstand trauma. For instance, you can stack several huge plastic containers and not worry about the ones at the bottom giving in because of the stress caused by the stacked containers. The thicker your plastic container, the better able they are to withstand physical stresses.
Another plus point for plastic is its cost. It is way cheaper than your average glass, wood or metal materials. Also, it is manufactured in huge quantities, hence, its price is super low.
The Downside
Plastic, as everyone already knows, has huge impacts on both health and environmental aspects. While it is possible to recycle plastic, the world’s consumption of this material is way higher than the recycling efforts being made.
Plastic is also non-biodegradable so it will stay on earth long before everyone else is gone. It can also contaminate the soil and eventually affect plant and animal lives.
Kitchen Use
As much as many would deny it, plastic has a lot of roles to play inside our homes, more so inside the kitchen. While the issue on waste is forever there, homeowners can help lower the amount of discarded plastic by being responsible with the containers and even the furniture that they have at home which are made of this material.
Yes, we can do something about it and eventually help Mother Earth remain habitable. There are options that may be a tad pricier than your usual plastic containers but you’re ascertained that you’re on earth’s side.
Glass Food Storage
There are more benefits to glass food storage compared to using mainly plastic. First, you’d be glad to know that glass looks a lot prettier than plastic. While aesthetics may not be the only reason why you should change your kitchenware, still, it pays to have pretty containers in your kitchen.
Glass jars and containers can also help keep food safe. It has been proven that toxins can transfer from plastic to food during heating so if you want to steer clear of such concerns, then it is best to just switch to glass containers.
Glass is also known to enhance the flavors of food such as marinara and milk. Just think of any glass-stored food that you buy from the local grocery store and it is sure to taste better than those packed using other materials.
Another reason to switch to glass is you help in cleaning up the planet. You become an agent of change as you help reduce the landfills in the nation. Broken glass containers can be easily recycled and there aren’t any toxins produced during the recycling process.
Glass containers can also help you save money. While they do seem costly at first, unlike plastic, you can consider this a one-time investment. Plus you’re guaranteed that heating glass is not going to produce toxins that could harm your body.
Overall glass is going to be safer throughout the years. Even a simple task such as dishwashing could leach chemicals from plastics so it is best to avoid that from happening.
It has been estimated that you can save as much as $17,290 throughout your life (for a person whose life expectancy is at 80 years old) if you use glass instead of plastic.
Tags: glass, kitchen organization, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, no to plastic
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | Comments Off on Kitchen Detoxification
Friday, September 28th, 2018
The Sleigh King Bed from Fine Furniture Design’s Belvedere Collection is a staple item that can have a new backdrop every few years.
How do you know when it’s time to redecorate? Are there any telltale signs that should signal the beginning of a DIY decorating project? There are many tasks that can be done when redecorating – there’s painting (which is the most common kind of redecorating technique), picking a new wallpaper, buying new furniture or simply moving the furniture around.
If you’re thinking of redecorating but are uncertain when and how to start, then here is a guide that can help you jump start the process –
Consider the Timing
Many interior designers agree that the right time to redecorate is every three to four years. Of course, the trends are forever changing so it would help if you update the rooms in your home now and then.
Even when you’re not up for a complete renovation, changing the bedding or color palette can go a long way. For instance, the bedroom is a place of relaxation so when it is beginning to look old and tired, then you’d certainly feel that it is time to update.
Taking as long as eight years is pretty long. Just imagine a nursery that’s not updated within those years. The eight year old will certainly feel out of place in that space.
Know Your Purpose
Updating the look of your home is crucial especially when it comes to your bedrooms. This room is a principle space so you must always stay on top of decorating the said room. Repainting the walls should be every 1-2 years.
A new coat of paint can breathe life to any space so every few years, reassess the rooms in your home and discover which ones would need to be freshened.
To Change or Not to Change
Eight to 10 years is a long time to stay with one design. If you don’t want to become too trendy, then interior designers advise that you stay with a neutral color palette and equally neutral design elements. Plus, remember that your taste could evolve so don’t make your design too permanent. Sure, a good mattress can see you through many decorating cycles but this does not mean that the bedding would also be the same throughout those years.
Be Ready for Change
Looking at the same design year in and year out could cause a visual fatigue. Plus, overtime, the design elements would look outdated and tired so it is best to change the look every few years.
While it is easy to get attached to some stuff as well as the layout of a home but if you want to avoid a worn out look, it is best to move a few things now and then. And if you have a few stuff that have been boxed for the past few months, then decide if they still deserve to be kept. Perhaps it might already be time to give or throw them away.
De-Stress with a New Look
Your home must never become a vision of disappointment. If you’re at home and you feel automatically stressed because of the things that you see, then it would be best to invest in a new look. Studies have proven that people do get tired of designs so you should have a crisp, new look every few years, else, the look you so praise now might look bland to you soon.
The Telltale Signs Appear
If your home is not only starting to look dingy but the stuff in it is also starting to look aged, then you know that it’s really time to do something. Unless these pieces are actually functional antiques, then you need to rethink whether they are still necessary in your home.
Having a number of cheap furniture pieces that are a few years old could spell the beginning of a redecorating project soon. These pieces just have a few years to boost so if you can, invest in more durable pieces soon.
Tags: how to redecorate, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, redecorate, redecorating techniques, when to redecorate
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Is It Time to Redecorate?
Thursday, September 27th, 2018
One look before you go out the door? Featured here is the Home Floor Mirrors SKU 09142.
Did you ever notice that restaurant lighting always has dimmers? This is not mere coincidence but is actually a design technique that can manipulate how you feel and even think. This illusion and other like visual techniques are used in many other public structures such as commercial buildings and hotels. If you’re ready, we’re now imparting some of the techniques that can create different moods in your home –
Calming Blue in Bedrooms
Perhaps you already know this one. Blue is a popular color that promotes tranquility. This is why it is commonly used in bedrooms. This is also a general color used in wellness centers and spas.
So why does this particular color make you feel relaxed? Just think of the clear blue skies and the blue seas. This hue brings to mind these sceneries so it is impossible to feel aggressive around such sights.
Well-placed Mirrors in Compact Spaces
If you’re thinking that mirrored walls are exclusive to fun houses, well, think again. If you place mirrors at just the right angles, they can create an illusion of space or openness. Mirrors can effectively do this because they have the power to catch light and to reflect this in just the right amounts. Mirrors can also be used as a fake window or as a wall for narrow surfaces.
Tiny homes would do well to use mirrors for added light and space, at least visually that is. You can also place mirrors behind light sources so that they can maximize the illumination.
Black and White for Active Spaces
Studies have proven that black and white tiles across the floor can make the subconscious mind think that you are moving on an uneven area, thus, your tendency is to move more quickly. You have might have seen this technique used inside bathrooms or in a cafeteria. This is used so that people won’t linger or relax and so the room can be used by other people.
The fusion of black and white is perfect since black is a heavy color and it tends to overwhelm while white is its exact opposite. These two beautifully balance everything in the room. Just picture the yin and yang – those are black and white aren’t they?
Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Homecoming Rug 0048CS Chestnut Brown: Patterns, anyone?
Lengthen with Patterned Carpets
Different kinds of patterns have different psycho-physical effects on the human brain. People also have varied perceptions of various patterns. Geometric patterns often make people think about machines, tools, strictness, formality and orderliness. There is a reason behind this.
Do you remember your geometry lessons in high school? Weren’t you asked to use the logical part of your brain to solve those? The patterns were unchanging and sometimes even overwhelming this is why the use of this kind of pattern is limited in interior design.
Organic patterns, on the other hand, are those shapes that you see in nature such as those of the rocks, trees, flowers and leaves. People enjoy looking at Mother Nature, hence, the often asymmetrical patterns that come with these organic forms are calming and comforting.
Hallways and small spaces have long been lengthened by patterned carpets. This is an effective way of drawing the eye outward, thus, also creating an illusion of larger space.
Green Dining Area
Green is easy on the eye. It is a calming hue even when you look at it for a long time. This is also a color that evokes hunger just as much as red does the same to the human digestive system. Small wonder why McDonald’s uses red and Starbucks makes effective use of the lush green hue.
Use green on your dining room walls. It is a restful color which you can also use inside bedrooms. There are also researchers who claim that green is a color that can help improve one’s reading ability. So, green is also an effective color in home libraries and reading corners.
Tags: design techniques, design tricks, interior design techniques, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mood-affecting design tricks
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on 5 Behavior Affecting Design Techniques
Wednesday, September 26th, 2018
Featured here are two popular wood options, pine and oak. Counterclockwise are the Orient Express Furniture Accessories Venetian Floor Mirror 8064.SGRY-PNE made of recycled South Pine and the other piece is the Bernhardt Interiors Bedroom Nightstand 372-230 made of durable oak.
If there is one material that is often used in making furniture, that would have to be wood. No matter what type of wood is used, each has its own unique traits to offer. Every piece is also able to effortlessly add warmth to any interior design.
You might be shopping for furniture soon to update the look of your home for fall and since wood is a predominant element this season, it’s time to learn how to shop according to the best furniture traits. Understanding wood furniture shopping means also understanding the characteristics of each unique specie.
Hardwood and Softwood
It is common notion that hardwoods are more durable than softwoods. While generally this is the case, there are certain species of softwoods that are even denser than hardwoods.. Hardwoods are simply those that come from trees with broad leaves (deciduous trees). Softwoods, on the other hand, are from conifer trees or those that have needle-like leaves and do not have seeds.
Hardwood species grow much slower than softwood trees. This is why they tend to have denser woods. These species are likelier to withstand wear and tear although not all types are hard. Examples of soft hardwoods are basswood and poplar.
Hardwoods are also commonly darker than softwoods. And since they are denser and generally more durable, they are also more expensive.
Here is a list of the most popular types of wood and the characteristics that each offers –
Ash
This is a hardwood that offers amazing bending capabilities. This is often used in making furniture pieces that are curved or have backrests. This comes in light brown color and has a straight grain.
Ash is also sometimes used as a material in making tools and frames. It is known to absorb high amounts of shock without even splintering.
Ash is what’s known as Fraxinus excelsior. It is a common tree in the U.K., Turkey, and all across Europe because these areas are moist and cool but still have ample direct sunlight.
Beech
The beech tree is another deciduous tree which belongs to the Fagaceae family. There isn’t just one specie of this tree. There are 11 species all in all. These are commonly found in northern Europe, North America, and Asia.
The type of soil that supports the growth of a beech tree is one that’s rich in limestone and other fertile and well-drained soils. The smaller and younger trees are able to survive even in partially shaded zones. The mature trees, on the other hand, require more sunlight.
Beech is a heavy, hard and strong wood. It has tight grains and an even texture. It comes in a light color and is highly-resistant to shocks. This is the kind of wood that you would like to polish because it looks amazing with its smooth finish.
Mahogany
This is a expensive type of hardwood because it has a wide spectrum of colors ranging from medium brown to the deepest red brown shades. This is a popular choice for veneer pieces because it is versatile and traditional-looking.
Maple
This wood is heavier and durable and is even moisture resistant. This is also a type of wood that can withstand wear and tear. The swirls and twists on its wood grain are what make this wood specie unique.
Patio furniture anyone? Let maple be your go-to wood type.
Oak
Oak is heavy and has open wood grains. The two varieties are white and brown oak (also referred to as red oak).
Pine
This wood type is affordable because it is lightweight and is less durable. However, what makes it amazing is that it is perfect for stained pieces. Compared to oak or maple, this specie is less durable but it blends well with any design. This is the best choice if you’re looking to add pieces to your existing design.
Walnut
Lastly, walnut is a hardwood that is strong and has straight grains. Its chocolate brown color is most popular although there are also lighter versions.
Tags: kinds of wood, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, wood, wood kinds, wood types
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on A Comprehensive Guide to Popular Wood Types
Tuesday, September 25th, 2018
The Canadel Dining Room Wooden Seat Bench BEN8903-18 has the perfect vibe for fall.
It’s Fall. You definitely should have traded the summer decorative items for fall stuff by now. There are now hard rules when it comes to fall décor and you simply have to follow the cues that go with the season. Just look all around you – the leaves are turning orange and red, the browns are becoming more intense, and the air is filled with anticipation.
It is said that the best time to hang and set up your fall décor is late August up until October. Of course, you would not want to confuse the look with the upcoming Christmas vibe. This season, as you know, offers a different spectrum of color palette.
One of the best styles that you can have this fall is a rustic look. It is timeless yet, at the same time, parallel to the looks that fall evokes. Rustic design is basic, even raw, but it is always strikingly lovely.
If you’re embracing this look for fall, then you have to understand the philosophy behind it. It is organic and is supposed to invoke warm and comfortable feelings. Here are some of the basic design elements that you can work with –
Rustic Textures
Wood is the leading element in any rustic habitat. Even reclaimed wood is a good choice for your walls, flooring and furniture materials.
Wood effortlessly provides the natural look that is needed in rustic design. The wood beams also typically support the ceilings and these are often made of alder, pine, cherry or hickory. There are many other choices of woods to choose from.
The second most-used element in rustic design is metal. Metals, especially wrought-iron, can be seen on elements such as pots, pans, even the staircase posts.
The right accessories need to complement the look that you’re trying to set up. For instance, having metal doorknobs means you need to pair them with wood and distressed bathroom accessories so the rustic vibe is achieved.
Apart from wood and metals, there is a third element that is also typically seen in rustic interiors and these are stones. Stone is used in balancing the other elements.
Rustic Color Palette
You will need a natural color palette to make the design work. So, think of oranges, browns, beiges, taupes, and cream. This base color is also often joined by shades of red, green, and blue. What’s important is that you tie up all these colors so that they are able to present an earthy and warm aesthetic.
Don’t be limited by just the basic shades, though. Remember that you can use different shades of the same color in layering. Doing this will add to the depth of your surroundings.
Don’t paint the wider surfaces such as the walls and the floors. The wooden surfaces become even more exciting and rustic if they look natural, raw, and unpainted. If you’re still having difficulty choosing the right colors for your rustic home this fall, then you can never go wrong with white. Plus, you can carry on this palette to the winter season.
Capel Incorporated Floor Coverings Ikat Rug 3261RS Flame
Rustic Patterns
Because rustic style is refined unrefined, you need to create interest by adding patterns. Buffalo check, calico, Ikat, and patchworks are all traditionally rustic. These patterns can be used on the floor rugs, the pillow cases, and other accessories.
Enhance your home further by adding quilt or by hanging an interesting carpet on one wall.
Rustic Furniture
Find furniture pieces that are traditional looking and have a comfortable and authentic feel. The materials must be raw wood or, at the very least, handmade. Each piece must evoke minimalism. Cap the look by accessorizing with twigs, branches, driftwood, and acorns.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, rustic, rustic design, rustic interior design, rustic interiors, rustic look, rustic style
Posted in 2018 Trends, Color Schemes, Decorative Elements, Fall Season, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on The Rustic Fall Look for 2018
Friday, September 21st, 2018
What do you think was the function for the features of the Hooker Furniture Living Room Savion Power Leather Motion Sofa?
When homeowners are out to choose their interior designer, what do you think are the characteristics that they would look for? At the very top of that is having a good taste, of course. This one goes without saying. But which traits would you also add to having an impeccable taste? And what if you really need an industrial designer? Will you list more requirements?
The Basic Traits
Who’s the Industrial Designer?
Once you’re guaranteed that the interior designer has all of the above qualities, it’s time to check whether he is also qualified as an industrial designer. This expert is just as educated and trained as the interior designer but he is one who can turn the ideas to new products.
Those who want to pursue a Master’s degree program would be better able to market his skills. He is also likely to be given job offers than those who stopped with their Bachelor’s Degree.
The industrial designer develops concepts as well as designs for manufacturing firms. They often specialize in a single product category like housewares and furniture. This professional must be persistent, creative, and able to communicate with ease.
The industrial designer can be a graduate of Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, architecture or even engineering. His career must begin with an impressive internship and eventually develop into the most impressive work portfolio which he acquired through serious and dedicated labors.
An industrial designer is also responsible for product looks such as those consumed each day. Even medical equipment, household products, food, and consumer electronics can become his duty. This expert is also the go-to person when defining ergonomics as well as the aesthetics of furniture pieces.
An industrial designer must also have a good knowledge of quality assurance, accounting, marketing, project management, and strategic planning. When he does acquire all these know-how, he will become more attractive to many employers.
If you’re thinking of becoming an industrial designer, expect to travel to design centers, testing facilities, exhibit sites, and users’ homes. You would primarily work in offices where you will conceptualize the looks of products.
The Job Outlook
As of 2017, it has been recorded that the median salary for industrial designers is at $69,970.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, a lot of industrial designers endeavor to finish their Master’s degree in Business Administration. This is because the industry is becoming more and more concerned about the importance of strategic design on products.
Industrial designer employment is projected to grow to 4% from 2016-2026. This may be slow compared to other occupations but it is a steady growth nonetheless.
Tags: industrial designer, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, The Interior Designer | Comments Off on Who Is An Industrial Designer?
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