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Tuesday, June 6th, 2017
Century Furniture Living Room Lamp Table – Bronze SF5476
Metal is always made synonymous with one term and this is utilitarian. Yet metal furniture is a lot more than this nowadays. It has developed quite a popularity for a number of reasons including streamlined design and sturdiness. Wood may remain popular because of its classic look but there are also reasons to choose metal pieces. Here are some –
Style
Believe it or not, metal furniture pieces are stylish. Their manufacturers are constantly working hard in creating pieces that combine both aesthetics and function. There are those that look like wood. There are also those that have laminated drawer faces which can change the basic metal piece into something close to a masterpiece, aesthetically speaking that is.
While most furniture made with metal is fused with other materials, especially wood, it is still a material that can stand on its own. Your options include primary colors or the custom paints that can be easily applied on metallic surfaces. Paint application is a breeze because you won’t have to worry about wood grains and variations in wood color.
Painted metal surfaces have a standard color that is uniformly applied throughout. This means it can be your perfect base hue for your chosen color scheme.
Low Maintenance
There are a lot of scientific evidence pointing to the fact that metal deters bugs better than any wood furniture. It also allows easier cleanup while being able to tolerate pesticides.
All these are possible because metal does not have an absorbent surface. Metal furniture still has folds, bends as well as board areas, though, so you still have to fortify it by pest proofing it. These are nooks that little creatures could build a home in so pest proof your metal furniture pieces.
Strength
What could be more durable than the already extremely durable metal furniture? Metal furniture pieces are considered as the work horse of the furniture industry. These can tolerate extreme weather as well as extreme use. Metal, therefore, is the perfect material for homes that have many inhabitants. Think of dormitories and transient homes. The applications for metal furniture in these habitats are quite numerous.
Metal cases can also include storage under the bed, chest of drawers, and the nightstands.
Metal finishes are also often beautifully sealed which is why they can withstand heavy use. Just learn to take care of metal furniture such as keeping drink rings at bay, etc.
Metal finish that gets damaged is no problem at all – there are now many DIY patch kits that will help you create a new look for your metal furniture.
This Metal Canopy Queen Bed from the Biltmore Collection is the default focal point of any romantic bedroom.
Not Too Pricey
Compared to other materials, metal is definitely a lot cheaper even with its highest quality.
The best metal furniture pieces may have a higher asking price than its wood counterparts yet the upside here is that you can count on metal to last 15 years or more. Don’t be surprised to find out that most metal furniture collections offer warranties which will cover regular use for up to 10 years.
Metal may require a bigger upfront investment but you won’t have to replace it for many, many years so the price is actually relative.
Great for Outdoors Use
Using metal furniture outdoors is highly advisable because it is durable. It also offers a long-term solution when it comes to the perfect look that you would want to achieve outside of your home.
The patio would do well to have metal furniture sets instead of wood since you won’t have to worry about snow or rain damage. The blazing heat of the sun also won’t become a concern.
Typically, all you need to do is to wash the metal furniture with a dishwashing detergent mix and you’re done.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal furniture
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Metal Furniture: A Star In Its Own Right
Monday, June 5th, 2017
Hooker Furniture Bedroom Arabella Ten-Drawer Dresser
The modern bureau – also known as chest-of-drawers is a case that is fitted with two, three, or even more drawers. Any chest that contains drawers should be automatically referred to as a chest not of but with drawers. It is from chests that modern pieces of chest-of-drawers come from.
In the 16th century, bureaus were made with little tills which are also called drawer boxes. These are enclosed receptacles inside the bureau’s body. It was a step in fitting a bigger drawer to the entire bottom part of the joined chest.
Even when drawers were added, many kept their lids on the top; not till mid-17th century that these pieces appeared in which the pretense of the furniture piece being a chest was finally abandoned.
The birth and development of different kinds of furniture is far from absolute. There isn’t one history that can be attributed to the bureau. It has many origins like drawers and cabinets.
Bureau: A Clearer Ancestry
What can be best declared as the lineage of bureau is the case of highboys, lowboys, tallboys and those that are referred to as chest-on-chests. You might be interested to know that the boy suffix is a French word corruption for the term for wood which is bois.
Every single one of these is a true blue bureau. Beginning with the bureau on a stand, lowboy that has been used as a table or desk, and many other uses wherein the bureau was fitted with a number of drawers.
The highboy, on the other hand, is the taller version of the bureau, where extra drawers have been added. This is a grander furniture piece that was thought of more as a separate unit though it has two sections.
Just like any other type of furniture, the bureau varieties are defined by their specific uses. The chiffonier is generally tall and narrow and used by ladies in keeping their needlework as well as small pieces of clothes.
The lingerie bureau often has seven drawers which were created for all the days of the week. This is also sometimes referred to as semainiers which is the French word that means week.
Other styles are defined based on the style of period from which they have come. The breakfront or serpentine or the Federal and Sheraton.
Decorating with the Bureau
Whether you choose to use the bureau in the living room, hallway, or the bedroom, this lovely piece of furniture is a custodian of sorts. Even people who do not bother themselves with organization do not even have to worry about things getting lost if they have a bureau or chest of drawers.
Do you want more drawers for your baby’s clothing? Then you’ve found the perfect furniture piece in the bureau. Pick which size you want and how many drawers you will need.
The narrower ones can also be freestanding cabinets inside the bathroom. These can be suitable homes for those baskets that will hold extra towels and robes.
When placed on the entryway, this is the perfect welcome that you can give to your friends and visitors. There are hundreds of styles to choose from so you won’t have to worry about finding the right look for you. If you love all things traditional, then go for wood, bamboo and other rustic bureaus.
The color brown with ornate patterns is acceptable.
For a modern approach, use glass, metal and plastic. These materials represent modernity plus they offer straighter lines. Find the pieces that are most suitable for your taste and the style of your home. Also, check for smart construction where the bureau has quality mortise-and-tenon joinery.
Tags: bureau, chest of drawers, history of bureaus, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Bureau: Short History and Interior Design Uses
Friday, June 2nd, 2017
Viniterra Collection’s King Leather Panel Bed represents both sensuality and sturdy charm.
Have you ever given the history of leather a deep thought? Leather-making is such an interesting process that it deserves to be told and retold to people especially those that have a good many pieces of the said stuff.
The Leather Story
A long, long time ago, primitive man hunted food by going after animals. He then removed the skins and hides from the dead animals and used them as clothing, footwear, even tents. The earliest recorded use of leather was in the Paleolithic period where cave paintings showed the primitive man’s use of leather clothing.
The Paleolithic sites also showed a lot of bones that were used in scraping skins and hides for the removal of hair.
Not long after, man discovered leather preservation through smoke. He also discovered leather treatment when he infused tannin in leaves, barks, twigs and fruits of a few plants and trees.
Much later, earth salts and alum were finally used as tanning agents. These then produced softer and white leather. These were also dyed using different plant dyes.
Leather manufacturing was introduced in Britain by the religious and Roman invaders. Most of the monks from these places were leather experts especially in using it for writing. The Britons had a lot of uses for leather from clothing, shoes, bags and even some warfare articles.
Throughout the centuries, leather creation expanded and grew steadily over the medieval times. So it’s no surprise that you would see period films featuring leather tanneries during the medieval era.
Real or Faux?
So, do you really have to smell or touch leather in order to recognize its authenticity?
Genuine leather, keep in mind, is made from animal skin. These are skins of cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. There are various kinds of leather. The three types are aniline, semi-aniline and the pigmented kind.
When picking the type of leather that you would use, consider how it would eventually look and the foot traffic in the room where it is going to be placed.
Aniline leather is the top-grain, quality leather that does not come with any protective treatment. It is a natural-looking leather because it comes complete with markings. It is susceptible to surface scratches, though.
Semi-aniline, on the other hand, is still pure aniline but it comes with a coating of clear finish or pigment. This makes the leather more durable as it protects it from spills and stains. The coating also gives the assurance that the color will be consistent throughout the entire surface.
Lastly, the pigmented kind is still a top-grain leather but this one is coated with a clear top pigment or layer. The pigments are either shiny or bright-colored. It appears less natural, of course, as the colors are often used to hide the imperfections on the leather.
This is the kind of leather that is often found in many auto upholstery and furniture shops.
The leading differences between real and fake lather are the following –
Smelling also will help you tell that the leather is real. There is a distinct smell to a leather object that can never be replicated by furniture makers.
Tags: faux leather, genuine leather, history of leather, leather, leather history, McCreerys, story of leather
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on The Story of Leather (Both Real and Faux)
Friday, June 2nd, 2017
FFDM Deco: Transparences Glass Top Cocktail Table
There are many different kinds of tables these days. In fact, there are thousands in the market that picking the best one becomes a real challenge. To make this decision-making a whole lot easier, here are some summer hot tips –
Create an Illusion of Space
Primarily, having a glass top table is amazing because it can easily create an illusion of a more expansive space. This means that a small room could appear bigger and airier than it actually is. For instance, if you fused your dining room and kitchen into one space, then the glass top table will definitely be able to help.
Embrace Versatility
A dining table with a clear glass top is the most versatile piece of furniture in your dining area. This can accommodate just about any kind of interior décor.
The glass top table looks great with vintage pieces inside traditional homes. It also is a welcome feature inside contemporary spaces.
Be Unforgettable
If you are aiming to create an unforgettable setting in your dining area or kitchen, then you should seriously consider buying a glass top dining table. These days, this is no less than one of the most stylish and elegant interior design solutions in the industry.
You can combine elegance with ultra-sleek contemporary design. Don’t think that glass tops are exclusively for modern settings anymore. They can also look amazing in traditional atmospheres even in futuristic, high-tech ambience.
You can combine glass with just about any material – chrome, wood, leather, and thicker or thinner types of glass. The beauty of glass these days is that they can now be bought with tint. Manufacturers have come up with the widest range of tinted glass options so you are likely to find the tint that suits your personality and style.
Amazing Options
A wonderful side to having hundreds if not thousands of options is that you get to choose the size or shape that you want. So go ahead and look for square, round, oval or rectangular shapes. If you’re not satisfied with the basic shapes, then search for abstract shapes.
Abstract glass top tables would wonderfully fit into a high-tech environment. The size depends hugely on the model of the table. There are tables that were manufactured for two persons only and there are those that can serve a lot more.
Minimal Maintenance
Glass surfaces are easily maintained compared to wood and other non-water resistant materials.
You won’t have to worry about spills with glass top tables. Their surface also won’t tarnish or fade with time. This means that your glass top table will look as good as new throughout the years.
Glass top tables don’t need a replacement unless, of course, when they’re damaged or when you finally grow tired of their look.
Durability
Tempered or safety glasses are now available in the market. This wonderful technology is brought about by producing glass in high temperatures then cooled off in specific conditions. Such glass tops are unlikely to get broken or scratched. And since you practically have a damage-resistant furniture piece, it is a safe piece to use inside your home.
Define Who You Are
If you want to add a touch of personality in your dining room or kitchen, even inside the living room, then the glass top table is a wonderful piece to use. You can just feature your book collection, knickknacks, and whatnot atop this interesting table.
Since it’s summer, you can also place a vase of flowers or a tray or bowl of fresh fruits. Think of interesting decorative pieces for your living room center table, too. A framed photograph or two also won’t hurt.
Tags: glass top table, glass top tables, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, table with glass top
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Why A Glass Top Table?
Thursday, June 1st, 2017
Palm Island’s Beachcomber Bamboo Dining Arm Chair
If you will ever travel to China, you will observe that the materials and crafts used in furniture making and the arts are made of endemic stuff such as porcelain, silk, stones, clay and bamboo. Bamboos, in fact, have an awesome amount of uses in the textile industry, art, calligraphy, paper making, and furniture manufacturing.
Bamboo grows in abundance in China especially in the eastern and southern parts of that country. This is no less than the largest type in the grass family. It is characterized by its woody, long stems.
These are the very properties that make bamboo a mainstay in Asian craftsmanship. For over a millennia now, bamboo has been known for its tensile strength. Compare it with steel and it automatically becomes a great competitor.
Bamboo is so limber that it will only split under a massive amount of force. Yet you can strip it and be woven to create the most beautiful furniture, bags, chopsticks, flutes, and just about any other work of art that you can think of.
Industrialized materials may become quite boring. If you’re one to feel that way, then the bamboo or Asian-inspired theme is a perfect getaway for you.
Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Hibiscus Round Accent Table 593-953 is an interesting addition in this summery living room.
Rediscover Bamboo
Since the late 1800s, the British have been using bamboo to manufacture bicycles because of its strength and tubular shape. It is no surprise, therefore, that the furniture industry also loves this material.
Furniture artisans and interior designers, these days, prove that bamboo still has a home even in a contemporary home. This material has been used in the creation of both large and small furniture. The great news is, it is also sustainable so you won’t have to worry about Mother Earth being hurt in the process.
Since it is eco-friendly, you won’t feel guilt in using it in abundance in your home. So go ahead and use it as a decorative panel or screen. These work wonderfully in any space that you can think of. They also come in different styles, shapes and sizes.
For the ultimate natural look, use mature bamboo canes as an assembled room divider. This floor to ceiling wonder will surely be the subject of many convos with your friends.
Bamboo may also be used as green blinds. These window shades will have a delicate and natural appearance. And since they are known for their durability and resilience, you won’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon. Also, you get the added benefit of having light control.
Bamboo can also be a natural accent. A bamboo-framed mirror, for instance, is a surefire eye delight. How about a bamboo coffee table? These pieces are all that you would need to make the room more interesting. They are also the pieces that will totally revamp your interior design.
If you have light-colored walls, then you can effectively use bamboo flooring to frame this fresh look. This should open up the living areas further. Just be sure to consult with an eco-friendly interior designer so that you can ask about the right kind of treatment for such kind of flooring.
As for the kitchen countertops, who can stop you from using bamboo there? Whether you are trying to achieve a cozy farmhouse or a natural culinary space with stainless steel pieces, bamboo will find a home in your kitchen.
The goodness of bamboo does not end yet. Its sensational yet serene look can also give your bathroom the needed facelift. In 2015, bamboo was such a huge thing in bathroom design. It hasn’t stopped in being popular especially in homes that would want to infuse a spa-like serenity inside their bathrooms.
All these – and more – can be yours if you decide to redesign your home with bamboo this summer.
Tags: bamboo, bamboo furniture, bamboo interiors, decorating with bamboo, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accents, Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Why Designers Love Bamboo
Thursday, June 1st, 2017
This Glass Top Table from FFDM’s Summer Home Collection reflects what summer should be – light and super laidback.
It is almost summer! This is an exciting season for a lot of people because this is the time to get out and do some physical activities, get lots of doses of Vitamin D, and have picnic with friends and loved ones. This is also a wonderful time to redecorate your home.
Go, Go Green
Summertime is the best season to store those heavy rugs and just enjoy your bare hardwood flooring. Use a lot of flowers and greeneries so that your home will have a more casual, airy, and bright feel.
Let’s Party
Summertime is also the time to invite guests over and enjoy the breezy atmosphere on your deck or that long, unused area by the pool.
Have bunches of flowers displayed, set up those lanterns and bring out buckets upon buckets of ice. You are set to enjoy a lot of fun moments with your loved ones so better prepare.
Say your backyard isn’t that huge to accommodate a lot of chairs and tables, then just have these pieces moved to the grassy lawn. Don’t hesitate, just do it. This should show how casual and laidback your personality is.
As for night get-togethers, you can take advantage of the hot summer evenings by adding patio lanterns, graphic-patterned placemats and napkins for a more breathtaking outdoor dining.
Prep the Bar
Oh, the bar would really, really, really be busy this summer season. So go ahead and stock up on spirits. Whip up mojitos and your fave mai tai and entertain your guests with ‘em. And while you’re at it, why not stoke the flames of the fireplace nearby. Add a coral replica near the fireplace for a more coastal feel.
Embrace the Cottage Look
Imagine coming in to a cottage-ey entryway. Set up a wooden credenza in that area and display your summer-themed items such as green bottles, vintage fan, cute sailboats, pitchers and pictures of the beach.
Place a bowl of fresh fruits on that credenza to complete the look.
Uttermost Living Room Minkah Small Bench 23627: Who says exciting hues have to end in spring?
Everything Bright and Colorful
Have your tongue-and-groove paneling whitewashed. That should give the room an airier, cleaner look. Add some of the most colorful throw pillows that you’ve had in storage to up the summery mood in the living room.
In the bedroom, pair white bedding with wood bedframe. This is a lovely look for summer. Just add a colorful throw pillow plus a bouquet of freshly-picked flowers and you’re good.
Think sunny.
Swap the graphic, bigger pieces with vibrant-colored dishes and fresh flowers in glass vases. Find hues that are light and soft, even shimmery.
Yes to Nautical
What could be more summery than those nautical stripes? They are basically screaming summer.
Those striped slipcovers paired with a striped area rug should give your feet a more relaxed, nautical feel. Of course, have the furniture ensemble in white or varnished wicker to achieve a more relaxed look.
Easy-Breezy Color Palette
Say yes to a lot of grays and pale blues, none of those heavy, dark hues for now. Use white slipcovers during the entire summer season. Bleach them and use ‘em. They will even help you double the lifespan of your precious sofa.
Find an Ikat-patterned furniture piece to make the space more interesting. Ikat is an awesome dyeing technique to create unique textile patterns.
Mind the Coffee Tables
Be sure to decorate your coffee tables with things that remind you of summer. Pepper ‘em with fresh roses, your seashell collection, even an interesting sea fan.
Go Bohemian
The vibrant colors that are distinctly bohemian are perfect for your summer interior design. Mix flowers, patterns, hand paintings, and other cheerful stuff.
Bohemian is not chaotic, okay. This is just a place where the artistic mind could have a free rein. This is a spot where you’re not afraid to mix hues and brighten things up a bit. And, yes, this is the perfect look for your summer interiors.
Tags: designing for summer, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, styling for summer, summer color scheme, summer colors, summer decor, summer decoration, summer interiors, summer palette
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes, Summer Season | Comments Off on The Summer Ready Interior Design
Wednesday, May 31st, 2017
The warm colors in this bedroom make the Summer Home Platform King Bed and other pieces look more inviting.
So, it’s time to say goodbye to spring and welcome the lazy, hazy summer days. When done in advance, you will surely reap the blessings of prepping early. Well, how do you update your home’s interiors?
Light and Bright Does It
In updating your home to a more in season look, be sure to look for summery colors and any light and bright accessories. Put away anything that induces heat or even makes you think of heat. Store the heavy rugs, fire logs, turn off the heaters, replace the draperies with sheer curtains and keep away the thick blankets.
Clean Up Your Freezer
Be sure to leave some room in the freezer for all the ice cream that you’re gonna enjoy with your loved ones. To allot space, of course, you also need to chuck out any icy buildup, leftovers that have been unnoticed for the longest time, and ground meats.
As soon as the fridge and freezer are clean, go ahead and stock up on burgers and frozen goodies.
Party on the Patio
Think of all the patio parties that you will host this summer! Make sure that the blender is functional and ready to churn those mojitos and margaritas.
Invest in recipes of different mock cocktails and the real deals. Do not forget to bring out those accident-proof dishware from the drinking glasses to the serving trays. Check also the other outdoor entertainment essentials such as – ice cold drinks, finger foods, coolers, umbrella, pool floats, grilling baskets, pitchers, and your apron.
Check the Indoor Airflow
Prep and check your air-conditioning units. Ensure that you will have a cooler summer with a unit with lower energy output. You may want to check the air filter first. Clean any dust or debris around the exhausts and the vents then wipe off any dirt on the main unit.
Be sure to test the unit after you clean it. If you think that your HVAC isn’t working properly, then consider calling a professional. They will be able to test the unit as well as your air ducts for probable leaks.
Do these early on so that you won’t spend your summer days sweltering in the summer heat.
Build a Summer Stock
This is also the perfect time to stock up on summer essentials. It’s time to fill your medicine cabinet with aloe, sunblock, insect repellents, and migraine pills.
As for your linen closet, be sure to store a lot of fresh and fluffy picnic blankets and beach towels. Prep also the outdoor sports items like badminton rackets, croquet, basketball and baseball gears.
Check also your shed for those stored summer sports gears, hose, lawnmower and other gardening tools. Place these upfront, in an easily accessible area. This is so you won’t spend the time rummaging through your shed during the summer.
Summer Home Oval Cocktail Table is light-colored; perfect for the easy, breezy atmosphere of summer.
It’s BBQ Time
It’s also the perfect season to display those muscular arms as you hold barbecue parties. Clean your barbecue grill using soapy water (be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions, though).
After cleaning it up, heat it up then let it run on high setting for no less than 10 minutes. Allow it to cool down before you wipe the grates using just a thin layer of cooking oil.
Sure, your barbecue grill may not be as shiny as when it was new but you will surely hold a lot of successful barbecue parties with it.
Bug Off
Summer can also mean the appearance of bugs. This is because bugs migrate to a warmer area when they need to wait out the cold months where they were originally from. So, expect more bugs.
Prepare for their onslaught by setting up a barrier. Begin with pest control or just seal off your doors, windows and gaps. Check out the Internet for options on insect barriers.
Tags: designing for summer, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, preparing for summer, prepping for summer, styling for summer, summer home, summer styling
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes, Summer Season | Comments Off on Is Your Home Prepped for Summer?
Wednesday, May 31st, 2017
The Vera Banquette from the FFDM Textures Collection.
What is referred to as banquette seating are those benches that are often found inside restaurants. These are, basically, upholstered benches, nothing more but these, like booths, are a great way to dine cozily. The great news is that this setup has now moved into many kitchens and family rooms in many residences. ‘Want to be the first to know how to set it up?
Banquette History
Many furniture historians trace back the origins of banquette to 15th century in France. The word is derived from the Germanic equivalent of bench.
What’s amusing is that there were secret passages found underneath banquettes in many castles and palaces.
In American homes, banquettes only began to appear in the early part of the 20th century. Various kitchens were then infusing the table to post-colonial kitchens. They served as work surfaces more than a seating unit.
When the kitchen was no longer just a place for servants, the table became a place where families gathered to talk and dine informally.
The Banquette Design
A banquette can easily become the focal point in a breakfast nook, kitchen or even a multi-functional space in your home. This can also be traditional or modern according to your design taste. You can include this in your furniture investment the moment you’re ready to have banquette seating in your home.
The formality of banquette design is appropriate also in the dining room. The bench could have upholstery complete with a fabric that coordinates with the rest of the design elements. If you want it to have very little maintenance, then find a fabric that is washable and easy to clean.
If you have small children or pets at home, then consider investing in a banquette fabric that cleans easily. As much as possible, have the removable cushion type as well as washable slipcovers.
The bench can also be paired with some freestanding chairs. This way, you expand the banquette setting from two to three seats to as many as needed.
When setting up the bench, make sure that the ones seated there will be able to get up and get out of the area with ease. Of course, we wouldn’t want anyone crawling under the table during dinner.
The table that is paired with the banquette can match its style or it can also be purchased separately. The trestle table is the best option for a banquette. Pick the one that has a pedestal support at the center so that free movement and legroom are supported.
The bench seat must be about 18 inches above the floor. Make room for 24-30-inch sitting space for every person. The thickness of the cushion must also be carefully thought of.
Banquette Means Freedom
Now that we have established what banquette is all about, you would surely love the freedom that it can offer inside your eat-in kitchen or your dining room. You don’t have to conform to the matchy-matchy dining chairs and table and anymore.
The banquette can fill that booth in your kitchen or can be tucked under a dining room wall. Underneath the bench, you can also have a storage set up.
The banquette is a huge blessing to a home that has a small dining area. Banquettes can optimize seating while infusing a laidback vibe.
If urban dining is your thing, then your open-space plan can easily accommodate a banquette. This is perfect for the busy lifestyle and the refined tastes of many people these days.
How about having a retro diner right in your own home? A pure white space will come to life with a colorful set of chairs and a banquette plus a black lacquered banquette table.
You see, it takes just a little creativity to set up a dining space that’s both comfy and stylish.
Tags: banquette, banquette seating, banquette table, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Dining Room Design, Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | Comments Off on Create Inspiring Banquette Dining
Tuesday, May 30th, 2017
Campton Grove Collection: The antler decor on the wall fortifies the rustic appeal that is set for this living room.
Have you ever hunted and decorated with your own deer antlers? If yes, then you already know how special it actually is. Its natural design and hue make the deer antlers natural art pieces. Imagine yourself going through that tedious hunt, then you end up with your trophy and you celebrate with your loved ones. Just like in primal cultures, there is a wonderful feeling of power and beauty with deer antlers.
Antler Décor History
Archeology and research have proven that as far back as 10,000 years ago, primitive man was already using antlers as ceremonial or work tools and as a decorative element. The leaders of those days, supposedly, wore headdresses that might have included deer antlers.
And since antlers are a lot harder than bone, arrow heads, stone cutters and hammers could practically be made from them. The deer antler usefulness was practically abundant.
By the late 15th century, antlers were already being used for different purposes. It was also during this time that deer antler chandeliers came into existence.
Centuries later, nobles and monarchs wanted their manors and castles to be filled with antler decorative pieces. They also began to ask for furniture with elk or deer antlers. There are still a few pieces that can be seen in museums today.
In the modern era, rustic interior design calls for the most natural-looking elements. Deer antlers fit beautifully in. And just like centuries ago, a lot of people hunt then decorate their habitats with elk, deer or moose antlers. No log cabin is considered complete without this piece.
Faux It
A lot of people are manufacturing faux antlers these days. The cost of antlers – the real ones – are quite high so people are saying no to them. Antler chandeliers which are made from real antlers cost a fortune.
Thank goodness, with today’s technology, artificial or faux antlers can already be reproduced. Unsurprisingly, they look exactly like the real deal and they are a lot cheaper. When manufactured properly and maintained with care, these pieces can even become the focal points inside living spaces.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Pair Of Brass Antlers 1054-202
Decorating with Antlers
How do you actually feel about a pair of antlers as a decorative piece in your home? Well, you do not have to resort to a Wild West theme just so you can use this lovely rustic piece. Also, you don’t have to worry about the antlers still attached to the animal head.
Antler decorative pieces are so versatile nowadays. You can choose from different textures, colors and even what sort of decorative piece they are going to be.
Bookends don’t have to be made of metal or wood all of the time. Imagine having a unique pair of antler bookends for your classic book collection. What a wonderful sight it would be.
Imagine having a lamp with antlers as the lamp base. Nothing could be a more interesting lampshade or wall sconce than this piece.
How about placing a pair of antlers atop your fireplace? This is a lovely mantelpiece that would surely spur conversations. Who could resist talking about that eye-catching piece, right?
Antlers can also be installed on your wall and you can conveniently hang bags, caps and coats there. If you paint several pieces of antlers, they can also be individually framed then hung as art pieces. You would surely be surprised by the numerous options that you have for antler-inspired wall décor.
How about hanging antler wreaths on your front door? Or how about hanging a pair of antlers – still on the front door – but this time, place a few flowers on it. It is a welcoming sight to behold.
Tags: decorating with antlers, deer antler decor, elk antler decor, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, moose antler decor
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Antler Decoration: It’s Not Merely Rustic, It’s a Lot of Things
Tuesday, May 30th, 2017
The star of this ensemble is this Nesting Cocktail Table Center from FFDM’s Boulevard Collection.
The cocktail table has had its share of not-so-wholesome reputations in the past. Hearing it, it might conjure a mental picture of a tall table inside dark, noisy nightclubs. This table, though, is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture that you can use in your home – or just about any residential or commercial space.
So, what uses are there for the adaptable cocktail table?
The Get-Together Piece
Have you ever seen those dating shows on TV? These singles events are a wonderful way to use the cocktail table. Because of its size, the cocktail table induces socialization. People would be compelled to meet and greet in smaller groups if you gather them on cocktail tables.
Cocktail tables, in essence, encourage intimacy.
The Post-Gathering Area
Your cocktail table is an awesome choice for any pre or post-gathering event. Imagine a graduation party with sets of cocktail tables with cute chairs. These tables are portable so it will allow the most interesting arrangements for your graduation celebration guests.
It is also a wonderful furniture piece for networking. Imagine setting up a business network in the most intimate possible manner. The cocktail table is the right piece to accommodate just the right amount of people without it becoming a riotous crowd.
The Speaker’s Best Friend
Cocktail tables are also great for events where people are supposed to focus on the speaker or a certain group of persons. If there is a stage performance, this is also the most wonderful option since people will not be encouraged to buzz in groups while the presentation is ongoing.
Brunches and Coffee Time
The versatility of the cocktail table does not stop with those speaking engagements or simple gatherings. It can also be a spot where you can have your precious cup of coffee during your break time. This can also be the best place to hold light brunches on those daytime occasions.
Cocktail tables do make an impression of subtlety and brevity.
I’ll Take It Standing, Thank You
The cocktail table is also a great piece for people who cannot do prolonged sitting. Prolonged sitting, after all, fosters a lot of harmful conditions especially on the spine. If you’re holding a short meeting of sorts, then just have cocktail tables set up so that guests could socialize while also remaining active throughout the session.
That Intimate Adult Night
You can also keep conversations intimate and casual when you host a game night using your cocktail table. Just lay out different games and cards as you also serve bowls of simple snacks. You can also serve beer in the most interesting glassware.
Just make sure to provide comfy seats when you host this game night since prolonged sitting can be painful on the back.
The Sushi Party
You can also entertain your guests the Japanese way. Hold a sushi party right on your cocktail table. A low table would allow all of you to sit on the floor as you enjoy the food straight out of boxes and containers. If you want the real deal, then bring out those sushi plates.
The Indoor Picnic
Who says picnics only have to be held outdoors? You can also hold a picnic as you set up a summery hue plus a touch of greeneries right on your cocktail table. Serve light salads, sandwiches and sodas. Your guests would surely feel relaxed in such an ambience.
Summer Here We Come
Add some large pillows covered with summery fabrics like nautical stripes and other sea motifs.
Cocktail Is High Fashion
If you want to add a touch of designer fashion to your cocktail table, then add stacks of your glossy coffee table books or some designer magazines. Try alternating between horizontal and vertical orientation.
Tags: cocktail table, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, purposes for the cocktail table
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Repurposing the Cocktail Table in 10 Incredible Ways
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