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Monday, June 19th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Home Office
Many people who have set up their offices at home now probably know how convenient modular furnishings can be. This is a welcome thing since office settings are in a constant need of catching up.
Just a little trivia here –
These are true partially because of the organizational shift from the traditional office structures to the more collaborative systems. Also, the technological advances are constantly changing the conventional office platforms.
Offices that rely on technology show rapid growth compared due to employee mobility. The use of laptops and tablets instead of the bulky desktop computers generates more space. Employees are now on the move though they collaborate more often.
These are the collective beauty brought about by technology combined with the modular office furnishing.
Modular Design: Why it’s Great for Your Business
Modular, also known as architectural movable systems, are your alternative to conventional office drywall and steel stud. Being structurally mobile isn’t the only benefit to setting up your modular home office, though, here are some more reasons to switch to this kind of office design –
Improved Productivity. Studies have proven that productivity improves where the collaboration centers are set up in various sizes and styles. These non-traditional work spaces are able to maximize technology and human interactions.
Space Optimization. Why allow bulky office furniture occupy a huge portion of your office floor space? It’s time to maximize the living space by adding modular office furniture instead. Keep in mind that square footage is a concern for many offices but it doesn’t have to be yours.
Needs and Functions Met. Through modular systems, you can be able to build units based on the functions that you need for them and also on the user’s needs. If you have employees, then they have also have a say on workspace aesthetics.
Savings. The modular home office systems are cost-efficient. These aren’t just moveable materials, they are also lightweight and easy to set up. You don’t have to construct workstations made of steel and drywall anymore.
Modular systems can also be set up in just a matter of hours – or days for some units. Yet, compared to the usual construction time table, this is already a huge advantage.
Minimal Disruption. Of course, your home office is still a place of business so you would need the least amount of time to set up your workspace.
Modular elements are also easily reconfigurable in order to accommodate your growing needs. If, in the future, you will need more furnishings for your growing team, then all you have to do is to buy additional pieces for your modular system and you’re good to go. The same is also true when you need to cut down on the number of people in your home-based business.
Green. Setting up a modular home office is also environment-friendly. For example, the wall systems use less initial materials. This is already a huge savings in terms of energy and the use of materials. Renovation or set up of your modular home office is also dust-free so you won’t have to close down your office just to integrate this new part of your home.
Flexibility. The modular home office systems can also be easily switched to welcome the addition of technology or aesthetic designs in the future. This is, after all, a system that can be easily reconfigured. You can even use some parts of the system for plugs, plumbing and the integration of technology. Check the modular system designs for possible additions.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modular, modular home office, modular system, modular systems
Posted in Home Office Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Modular Home Office Furnishing and Why It’s Hot
Monday, June 19th, 2017
BLOG 1. Hooker Furniture Bedroom Arabella King Upholstered Panel Bed: The Arabella Collection shares its take on French interior design through these neutral yet stunning pieces.
Elegance is the first word that would come to anyone’s mind when French style is mentioned. Whether you’re thinking about French clothing, food, wine or their interior design, there simply isn’t anything bad to say. French interior design, in particular, effortlessly combines both the traditional and contemporary ways of design principles.
The French Personality
French interior design is sophisticated, daring yet chic. It can also be quirky as well as personal. If you would travel anywhere in France and would take the time to look inside French homes, you would notice that no two homes are look or even feel alike. Their confident vision in terms of designs is the key to getting away with the one-of-a-kind flair.
So, are there any rules in going French this summer season? At first glance, you may think that there aren’t any. The truth is, French interior design also has some do’s and don’ts.
The French Do’s
Still from the Arabella Collection: Hooker Furniture Living Room Arabella Four-Door Credenza
The French Don’ts
Now it’s time for the do nots. Of course you would also want to know about these so that you won’t go wrong with your chosen design –
French Colors
French style also centers on what sort of hues you are allowed to use – think of royalty, regal beauty, and sometimes, even simplicity. After all, after the French Revolution, more and more people turn their back on frilly aesthetics and went for things that are simple – you should do the same.
French interior design is flexible when it comes to colors. Just allow your personality to shine through to your palette. If you want calmer surroundings, then go for white, off-white, mushroom, taupes, gray, light green or powder blue.
If you are bold enough, then try teal, shades of red or emerald green. These will surely create an interesting feature wall, for instance, if not some pops of color in a mainly neutral backdrop. Nothing is every practically off limits when it comes to French interior design.
Tags: French design, French furnishing, French furnishings, French interior design, French interiors, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Summer a La French
Friday, June 16th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Living Room Pinta Trail Strong Box Cocktail Table
Who wouldn’t love the country style? But since we’re in a world where everything has to keep up with the times, then a good way to catch up or update the look of your country style home is to go modern. Modern country style is the interesting marriage of traditional, rustic appeal with Scandinavian modernism.
The modern country style look is eclectic and so you will surely get the update that you have long been waiting for. You will see more of stripped wood, clean painted walls, and other rustic touches throughout this design scheme. Expect to see these as well – old-fashioned wooden flooring, barn doors, stone fireplaces, and the open space layout.
Modern country, these days, has veered away from the nostalgic look. Instead, it has embraced a more global appeal, one that could include artisan pieces such as Eastern rugs, Asian features, Scandinavian furniture, woven baskets, South American and African accents, and more.
If these haven’t interested you yet, then find out what other elements you should learn about in this hill country look that’s a must-have –
Contemporary and Vintage
The rooms in your home could display the most interesting fusion of styles, in this case, contemporary items with old doors, heirloom accessories, paintings, and such. A stainless steel water container could easily become a repurposed sink.
How about having a bright green cabinet in a sea of light grays?
Mix various flooring materials gracefully. Combine stone with wood and contrast contemporary with vintage or vintage-looking replicas.
Wood Is a Must
Modern country style will always require the use of wood somewhere. This can be seen on furnishings, architecture, or decorative elements. The most-used elements include unfinished wood in its natural form, exposed wooden rafters, and wooden cabinets. These contrast well with rustic stone walls.
Accentuate with Stone
Stone is also a staple piece in a farmhouse. It will evoke a more industrial contemporary vibe. A notable example is when you have a stone fireplace set up in a mainly wooden interior. Imagine having the exposed plumbing and beams overhead. It’s unique and definitely attention-grabbing.
Stone features can also be used on walls whether that’s in the bedroom, kitchen, living room and just about any living space in your home.
Spindle Dining Arm Chair has a dependable and luscious hue for the traditional theme lovers.
Neutral Palette
Yet another hill country look staple is a neutral palette. Use only the elegant and restrained colors such as taupes, dark and light grays, earth hues, and whites. It is easier to achieve warmth with these tones than any other color.
Contrast the probable blandness with beautiful stones, wood, and exposed architectural elements. Make all these complement each other for an aesthetically pleasing home.
Of course, a great way to make your modern farmhouse look appear more interesting is to add a pop of color somewhere. While the base color is mainly neutral, go for something saturated elsewhere. Create an accent wall of blue or green. A colorful artwork could also be the defining piece to top your hill country look.
Minimalism
The hill country look is also all about minimalist living. Whether you get artisan pieces or not, this is a style that should evoke the rustic elegance of farmhouse living.
Remember these traits when you want to succeed in creating a minimalist environment –
Tags: farmhouse look, farmhouse style, hill country, hill country look, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern country, modern country look, modern farmhouse look, rustic, rustic charm, rustic home
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on The All-American Hill Country Experience – Making Country Look More Modern
Friday, June 16th, 2017
Do you think this Antebellum Double Pedestal Table has an eye-catching centepiece?
What do you think makes the dining tables on formal gatherings and events interesting? Is it the placement of the dinnerware or the lavishness of the tablecloth? Or is it the arrangement of the food on the table? If you looked close enough, you know that it’s the table centerpiece that actually made a huge difference. Even the most scrumptious meals won’t look appetizing if the centerpiece is a total blah.
Here’s what we mean –
The centerpiece is either a collection of flowers, food, candles and even simple votives. Yet these are a lot more than pieces organized at the center of the table. The centerpiece is also subjected to the laws of art and fashion. So, you would also need to consider factors such as color combination, balance, texture, etc.
A Little History
But when did table centerpieces actually begin? It was the Romans who first thought of adding decorative foliage onto their tables. Other probable centerpieces that were originally used on Roman dining tables are ceramics, vases and patterned dishes.
In the Middle Ages, there were simply too much food on the table to even accommodate a simple centerpiece. Centerpieces weren’t huge then but it was during Christmastime that they became the stars of the dining experience.
A common Christmas dinner centerpiece was made of marzipan and pastries. There were even decorative pieces that looked like animals, people or even sceneries.
By the 18th century, servants were already handing the dishes to their hostess. This meant the room had a more expansive space for table décor. Mirrors were even set up to reflect the beauty of the centerpieces.
By this time, centerpieces were triangular mounds of food that were arranged in tiers or epergnes. There were also molded jellies and pudding.
The 19th century continued the need for foliage and flower arrangements while the candelabra became an exciting addition.
The 20th century welcomed the addition of WWI decorative objects. Most of these replaced foliage and flowers during that time. Harp and green stuff were used during St. Patrick’s Day or miniature windmills were used for Dutch themes.
1960s till the 1970s were the era for flowers and greeneries.
The Uttermost Accessories Southern Magnolia Silk Centerpiece 60129 is as classic as it centerpieces could go.
Centerpiece Ideas
So, now that you know how beautiful your dining experience could get with the right centerpiece, here are some ideas that you can mull over –
Tags: centerpiece, creating table centerpiece, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, table centerpiece, table centerpieces
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Color Schemes, Dining Room Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on The Table Centerpiece: Is It Art, Fashion or a Decorative Element?
Thursday, June 15th, 2017
Which part of Cynthia Rowley Balthazar King Upholstered Bed is ‘geometrically’ interesting to you?
Achieving geometric designs may be a tricky thing to do but it is definitely a look that will be featured prominently for many more years. The interior design industry has much use for geometric patterns and styling. Don’t be surprised if you see more and more interesting and unique patterns being used in many sophisticated or modern habitats.
If you’ve never considered painted geometric walls in the past, then this might be the right time to reconsider. This is an inspiring and one-of-a-kind look that is edgy, angled and so much more.
If you’re a pastel lover, don’t fret, because there is much more that you can do with your favorite hues when you pair them with the right geometric patterns.
Geometric Wall Painting or Wallpapering
If you’re bent on getting the geometric look then you should learn to work with different strong hues. The geometric look is all about making a strong statement; making people look and creating aesthetics that are meant to intrigue the senses.
Step 1 in painting a geometric wall is to pick the area that would have to be painted. This can be the entire wall or just a portion of it. Using masking tape, mark out the areas that need to be painted.
Step 2 is to tape off the geometric shapes that will be used. You can create diagonal strips that meet at the center so that the focus of the eyes would be towards the center.
Step 3 is for you to pick your color hierarchy. Find out which hues you veer towards then use these in the most prominent areas of your home. The larger blocks should be allocated to these colors.
Step 4 is to begin applying the paint to these areas. Apply two or more coats to achieve a textured look.
Step 5 is to dry the paint and making sure to remove the masking tape from the painted wall only when the paint has already dried. These masking tape markings will make the edges neater.
Step 6 is pretty simple – sit back and enjoy what you have accomplished.
If painting your walls are a little too bold for you, then you can experiment first with wallpaper. The right shapes could bring in a retro vibe into your home. It can also create a perfect backdrop for a piece of furniture that comes in an interesting block color.
Geometric Décor
Regardless of where you intend to use the geometric shapes, they are sure to intrigue you, even your guests. Geometric shapes seem artificial since they come in beautiful, coordinated shapes that nature won’t always provide.
The introduction of these patterns aren’t always easy, though. Plus, you might not always like the idea of repainting an entire wall. If this is the case with you, then you can resort to geometric decorating.
Find any piece that features geometric shapes that could instantly become the focal point. If not, then it can also be the right accent piece to frame the focal point of your room. Imagine having geometric fabric on your couch while the flooring it sits on is an interesting white span.
The chandelier is a perfect piece to show off interesting geometric patterns since it is often the focal point of a room. When placed in more inconspicuous areas, this can be your accent piece.
Geometry is all about experimenting and knowing what work and what won’t. If you’re still hesitant, then use geometric rugs as these are less invasive and they can also be easily removed should the time come that you no longer want the geometric style.
Tags: design geometry, geometric design, geometric furniture, geometric interior design, geometric interiors, geometric style, geometric upholstery, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Geometric Designs – How to Look Sharp and Timeless
Thursday, June 15th, 2017
Camden-Brookhaven: The Fairmont Drawer Dresser is shabby chic in all aspects.
Shabby chic is one trend that keeps on growing in beauty and in meaning. This summer season, don’t just go to the nearest flea market and pick the termite-laden pieces that could be sitting there. Instead, make time to truly design your shabby chic summer home.
There are just so many ways to incorporate shabby chic to rooms in your home. If you’re still confused about what pieces to pick and which ones to not include, then know that this style is similar to cottage or farmhouse settings. It is also similar to the French country look so sheer perfection is an absolute necessity.
What, perfection?
Okay, before you panic and think about how to perfect your shabby chic habitat, it’s best to celebrate in the elements that you are about to put in. Relax and, instead, enjoy what you are about to do.
Uncluttered
Shabby chic is uncluttered. It is simple and free from anything that distracts the senses.
To unclutter, make a list of all the rooms that you need to clean up for this shabby chic project. There are – you would soon find out – several clutter spots in your home.
Clean up one room at a time. Don’t force yourself to finish all in just one day – you would surely burn out. Better yet, set completion dates for each room.
Sometimes, uncluttered simply means you embrace a minimalist lifestyle. To simplify your life, just begin by discarding all the duplicates. Throw those that you have been keeping in your closet for years and dress with less.
Embrace the Blues
Blue may be a gender-specific color but the right shade should give you the freedom to use it whether you’re a man or a woman.
Blue is no less than the color of the skies and the vast oceans. This is a constant hue that invokes a relaxing feeling.
Blue doesn’t just offer health benefits, it can also be the perfect color for your new shabby chic setting. Just veer away from electric blue and other such brilliant hues. Instead, use powder blue or any light variation of blue. This way, you get to achieve the shabby chic calmness and coolness while being smart and intuitive.
Weathered Look Is the Look
Also known as the distressed finish, this is to intentionally make the furniture surface look weathered. You can have your existing pieces sanded down (this could take days of sanding and repainting) or you can simply pick from our lovely array of shabby chic pieces.
The weathered look can be further displayed when you use weathered wood, woven baskets, chipped paint, burlap and other decorative traits. Even an old window encased in wood makes for a charming entryway element for your new shabby chic place.
Repurpose
Another lovely thing about shabby chic is that it utilizes furniture in spaces that they weren’t traditionally meant to be placed. For instance, the dresser could be used as a china cabinet this time in your shabby chic dining room.
You can also set up more hidden storage in these repurposed furniture pieces.
Balance
If you’re thinking that sophisticated pieces such as the candelabra, wall sconces, chandeliers, and ornate furniture pieces have no home in a shabby chic environment, think again. You can use these pieces to balance the rest of the minimalist pieces that you have everywhere. Having a shabby chic look does not mean that every piece would have to have a worn out or chippy look.
A more elegant way to do shabby chic is to infuse one or two pieces of this design scheme and the let the rest frame those interesting pieces.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, shabby chic, shabby chic design elements, shabby chic elements, shabby chic interior design, shabby chic interiors, shabby chic style
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Shabby Chic for Summer – Why Not?
Wednesday, June 14th, 2017
Vitrine by Biltmore
There is really something special about dining outdoors. You get to take advantage of the warm, sunny weather while also enjoying the beautiful landscape, or you simply entertain people during the more pleasant seasons. And since it’s summer, oh you just gotta take advantage of the warm weather to dine al fresco.
But are there any special rules in creating an al fresco set up? Or do you already have the design elements needed to create the perfect outdoors setting?
Special Yet Nothing Special
Don’t overthink it. Just set up the regular dining table and chairs in your backyard or the patio. You see, there really isn’t one layout that would work for all types of homes. The more that you make the setup look like the regular deal and make dining outdoors seem like a routine, then you won’t appear trying too hard.
It’s All About the Light
Lighting makes all the difference especially when you would like to dine al fresco during the evening. Install café lights and keep them there for the entire summer season. Also, bring out all those scented candles and votives for obvious mood lighting.
Just make sure that the area is fire safe so that you can dine with peace of mind.
Just a Few Stuff
It doesn’t take much to enjoy dining al fresco. Sometimes, you don’t even have to set up a dining ensemble just to host an outdoors dining party. Bring out a thick blanket instead and some utensils plus a bottle of wine. As your guests arrive – the closest friends won’t mind being silly with you anyways – spread the blanket then bring out the bottle of wine, paper cups, and slices of cheese.
Such impromptu settings just happen. So, once again, don’t overthink it.
Tablecloth: Your New Best Friend
Choose some tablecloths that excite your senses. Even during the summer, weather outdoors can still be harsh. Since this is so, do a quick wipe down before you throw that lovely tablecloth on the dining table. You can also use a butcher paper as a table cover. This can make a huge difference in increasing the level of comfort in your al fresco setup.
Small Table Should Do It
Now that we’ve established how wonderful dining al fresco can be, you simply have to consider what sort of dining table you can actually take outdoors.
Remember that the dining table – not just the environment – can set the mood for the best outdoors get-together. Pick a casual, small dining table so that the ambience remains warm and homey. Dining outdoors doesn’t have to automatically mean that the environment becomes non-private. The closeness that you establish because of the more intimate setting will make your hosting something to talk about for a long time.
The key to this entire dining outdoors setting is to find the right pieces of furniture that will be able to accommodate your family, even some friends.
Consider the Outdoors Space
Your outdoors setting needn’t be sprawling. Just like the table, all you need is something simple yet chic. If you have a nice span of grass, then make good use of it.
Set Up Proper Seating
The next thing that you need to consider is the right kind of seats for your al fresco setup. If you want to enjoy the party while sprawled on the grassy ground, then all you need are some throw rugs. Throw in some pillows to make the setting more comfy.
If you want the more traditional route, then set up a long table on the patio and bring out matching or mismatched chairs – it really doesn’t matter. What truly matters is that you show a bit of your personality as you create the perfect al fresco dining experience.
Tags: al fresco dining, dining al fresco, dining outdoors, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Outdoors Style | Comments Off on Dining Al Fresco: How to Enjoy Your Family Meals Outdoors
Wednesday, June 14th, 2017
American Cherry Collection: How would you prefer to dress up these windows? Or, just like this setup, would you like ’em bare?
There are different kinds of windows in every home. Windows are architectural elements that allow natural light to come into the rooms during the morning till the afternoon (well, this depends on what side of the house the window has been placed). Windows also allow air to circulate freely, hence, your home feels and smells fresher and drier.
But do you know what kind of windows you have in your home?
Transom Windows
This is a narrow window that is either stationary (non-operating or operates to let in air. This is often installed above another window or a door.
To dress this kind of window, install tension rods that recess to the frames along the top and bottom parts of the window. Use sheer curtains specifically measured to the size of your transom window.
The Double-Hung Windows
This kind of window comes with two sashes which slide up and down. This can be opened wide either from the top or bottom. The sashes remain in the frame so they do not jut outdoors or in your home.
Use blinds, draperies or curtains according to your room requirements but make sure to open the windows during the day. This should allow more light and fresh air to come into your home. Even a window film would work to create a more customized look.
A single-hung window opens up at the bottom part only.
The Picture Windows
There is a wide variety of stationary windows that let in a huge amount of views and light coming from the outdoors. This is typically made of a single pane of glass and is often installed in the living room. Many modern homes, though, have used this kind of window in their bedrooms. Remember those bedroom windows in Twilight the movie?
Okay, you don’t have to be a vampire and not be able to sleep just so you can enjoy this sort of window. You just have to know how to properly decorate it so that you would be able to sleep when it is time for some shuteye.
Since this window is made of glass, you can have some blinds set up. For a softer touch, use Roman shades.
The Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top part and they open outward. This is so air is allowed to come in either at the right, left or bottom part of the window. These can be installed below, above or alongside an operating or stationary window.
Whatever window treatment you use for the stationary or operating windows, then that’s the same one that you also use for your awning windows.
The Casement Windows
These are hinged windows that open up when you turn a crank. These can be hinged either to the left or the right. They also open outwards.
The Slider Windows
These, as their name suggests, glide along a track. They are used in many contemporary or modern homes.
Leave this kind of window bare as its main purpose is to let in some light. For a little privacy, you can use sheer curtains especially during the summer.
The Stationary Windows
These never open but they can be made in any shape or angle that you require. These are also common in many contemporary and modern homes.
Since this kind of window – just like the slider window – almost always allows in some light, then it is best to leave it bare. If they come alongside operating windows, then have some light curtains installed.
The Bow or Bay Windows
These windows generally allow more interior space since they protrude outwards. They are a fusion of windows often with one stationary window right in the middle. The negative space in this kind of window can be used as a secret storage area.
This is the classic type of window that best displays thick draperies.
Tags: decorating windows, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, types of windows, window treatment, window treatments, window types
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101 | Comments Off on Accessorizing the 8 Window Types
Tuesday, June 13th, 2017
Cynthia Rowley Rivington 3-Over-3 Sofa is deliciously summer.
Heat brings about humidity, grime and dust. All these nobody wants so why not engage in summer cleaning? This task does not have to be a drag. You can actually have some fun while doing it.
But how?
Use Leftover Cleaning Agents
Now whoever said you have to buy expensive chemicals just so you can get the dirt off surfaces? Half a lemon that’s been left over dinner can be used to clean up faucets and stainless steel fixtures. You can also use this to get the grime off the grill.
Using a wire brush, rub the lemon juice onto the still warm grill. For major mess, use oven cleaner so you can attach the grime and food bits.
The grill isn’t the only thing that you can clean up using leftovers. You can also use full fat mayonnaise for those stubborn water rings left by some of your guests. Instead of hating that particular guest forever, just apply some mayonnaise onto the area. Let it sit for an hour before you wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Eliminate Mold and Mildew
Your washing machine could smell awful during the summer because it could get really humid. To prevent this from happening, use hot water and detergent and run an empty load. This should get rid of the awful smell. Just be sure to leave the washing machine door ajar so that it will dry properly.
As much as you can, try getting rid of mold and mildew using natural means. You would be surprised to find out that you already have some of the cleaning agents right inside your kitchen.
Vinegar, when diluted with water, can cut any pungent odor. It is also a natural mold killer when it is sprayed directly to the moldy area. Just leave the vinegar for a few hours then scrub using a clean brush.
If vinegar odor offends you, then use a few drops of essential oil to overcome the powerful scent.
Tea tree oil is also an effective mold eliminator. This may be more expensive than most green remedies but you would just need two teaspoons of this oil mixed with two cups water so it is actually relative. Spray this solution to the affected area but don’t wipe off or rinse.
Baking soda is another natural kitchen ingredient that you can use get rid of mold and mildew. Use it with water or water and vinegar. Spray the solution onto the moldy surface, let sit then scrub using a damp cloth.
Divide Your Work
Instead of tackling your cleaning in just one day, why not divide your summer cleanup to a number of days. You can spread the cleaning throughout the weeks and among different family members. This is so everyone will feel that they did their share of cleaning.
As a family, you can also set a goal to have a clutter-free home during the summer. Remember that having more stuff than needed means having more things where dust can accumulate.
Have the kids say yes to dusting during this season. Encourage even the preschoolers to take part. Ask them to put their laundry into the hamper and also to store their playthings once they’re done playing.
Never be sidetracked. Allow the voicemail to take your call while you’re still halfway through with your living room cleanup. Answer the call or email once you’re done with what you were initially doing.
Always make it a group project so that the cleaning will become fun rather than a burden.
Keep Dirt at Bay
One effective way to keep dust, dirt and sand away from your home is to have people remove their shoes right before they enter your home. Invest in a thick doormat that is also gentle on your feet.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, summer cleaning, summer cleaning tips, summer cleanup
Posted in Home Maintenance, Interior Design 101, Summer Season | Comments Off on Summer Cleaning (Coz You Missed Spring Cleaning)
Tuesday, June 13th, 2017
Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Brass Candlestick Lamp 1754-817
Would you believe that the first lamp – ever – was created in 7,000 BC? Of course, this is not your stylish, decorative lamp but rather a shell, hollow rock or a natural object that’s been filled with moss soaked with animal fat. Humans ignited this kind of lamp a long, long time ago and most of the styles were imitated from alabaster, man-made pottery, and metal lamps.
The wick was added later in order to control the lamp’s burning rate. By the 7 BC, the Greeks began to make terra cotta lamps which easily replaced the handheld torches. In fact, lamp came from the Greek word lampas which means torch.
Now let’s jump to the 18th century when the central burner was finally added. By then, the fuel source was an enclosed metal along with an adjustable metal tubing that controlled the intensity of the light.
Little glass chimneys were also added in order to keep the breeze from blowing out the flame. It was a Swiss chemist, Ami Argand, who developed this idea.
The earliest lighting fuels for these glass chimney types were either beeswax, olive oil, whale oil, fish oil or nut oil. These were the renowned fuels during the late 18th century, however, the Chinese were able to collect natural gas from animal skins.
In the mid-1800s, petroleum was already being drilled so kerosene (a derivative of this oil) became a popular choice for lamp lighting.
Hello, Electric Lamps
Sir Humphrey Davy, an English man, was the inventor of the first electric lamp. This worked by hooking dual carbon rods to an electric power source. Electric current then flows through the arc creating vaporizing carbon which emitted a bright white light.
Thomas Alba Edison and Sir Joseph Swann were the ones who invented incandescent lamps in the late 1800s. These electric incandescent light bulbs worked in pretty much the same way as Sir Davy’s invention. This time, the electricity passes through the filament that’s inside the bulb. The heat then generates high temperature which radiates light.
Still later, Friedrich Meyer, Edmund Germer and Hans Spanner came up with the fluorescent lamp. It was in 1927 that fluorescent lighting became available for lamp users.
Lamp Lighting Implications
Here’s another trivia – did you know that almost all religious events in India start with the lighting of a lamp? To them, lamp lighting is an invitation to the divine to join their ceremonies. You see, there’s much more to using a lamp than mere ambient lighting.
Lamps do not just provide a light source for your home, it can also be an effective decorative element. It can easily complement your chosen décor which can up the experience of your visitors. Decorative lighting can evoke different moods.
When a warm glow is set up in the bedroom, then you’re evoking romantic and relaxing feelings. A brighter lamp in the dining area signifies that you want a more animated meal with your loved ones and visitors. Just adjust the dimmer on this same lamp and you can have a more intimate dining experience.
The right task lamp can also help you accomplish your work in your home office. Couple this with blue walls and you are sure to become more productive.
Biltmore Linguist Lamp Table
Table or Desk?
Buy table lamps for home office, bedroom or living room setups. At least this is the general idea. Add femininity or masculinity in a room as you choose crystal for the former and lamps with sturdier bases for the latter.
For book reading and other such activities, use a table lamp. Be sure to invest in a lovely lamp table such as this lovely piece from the Biltmore collection of FFDM. For task lighting or a unique decorative strategy, use floor lamps. For both, be sure to get the scale right. Do not be afraid to mix and match hues and styles.
Tags: decorating with lamps, decorative lamps, lamp, lamps, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, task lamps
Posted in Accents, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | Comments Off on Glam Up with Lamps
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