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Monday, January 9th, 2017
Universal Furniture Living Room Wild Flower Console 450803: Metals are huge in Boho interiors so utilize them to your advantage.
To many people, Bohemian design could appear mismatched or chaotic. Just picture the piles of multi-colored window treatments, cushions, Oriental accessories, unique bedding sets, and jewelry and you’d know this is no simple interior design theme.
So what really is Bohemian interior design?
Looking at different Boho interiors throughout the globe, you are sure that you would never be bored if you embrace this style. Don’t expect monochromes in a boho room. What you should expect are your eyes jumping from one furnishing to the next as the friendly and warm eclecticism will make you marvel.
Boho design lacks requirements and restrictions. Just be original and overwhelming, be individualistic, artistic and be able to express yourself. These are the aspects that will make you a Boho enthusiast.
The Bohemian Origin
Comprehending boho means knowing where it came from. This is simplified La Boheme or the French word for gypsy. The gypsies are the perfect examples of people who live a bohemian lifestyle. Artists during the 19th century also were bohemian.
Boho also came from Bohemia which is a territory that was inhabited by gypsies back in the day. These nomadic spirits set their own rules for hundreds of years and they had their own style. It is no surprise, therefore, that artists were also referred to as Bohemians.
Maitland-Smith Accessories Bohemian Read Leather Box 1120-564
Boho Is Colorful
One of the wonderful features of boho design is the fusion of colors, textures and patterns. You will also see a lot of cultural influences which also exist in other parts of the planet.
Bohemian is unpredictable, bright and unique.
To pick a boho color for your room décor, be sure to find a fundamental color then search for contrasts. So, a blue couch would look great with a golden yellow pillow.
Boho Furniture
Boho interiors also suggest an ambience of relaxation and creativity. Comfort is the keyword that also describes the furnishings in this home. Say yes to colorful, upholstered pieces and all were chosen because of the level of comfort that they could offer.
Invest in cozy chairs with armrests, deep sofas, side tables, ottomans and other comfy seating units. Leather couches are also ideal for all Bohemian interiors.
Arrange your old book collections into distressed shelves. Wooden sideboards, shabby chic armoires and wicker pieces are all welcome. It is also a good idea to buy wrought-iron furniture and accessories.
Impressive Boho Décor
Getting an impressive boho décor to work with the rest of the furnishings might mean traveling to different destinations (or at least knowing a lot about other cultures). Items from your travels will become quite useful as wall décor or they could be placed atop the fireplace mantel or console table.
Use rugs, pillows, upholstery and curtains that have interesting textures. Fuse cotton and fur, silk and velvet, tapestry and batiste. There are even some who go as far as combining bright-colored cushions and patterned carpet.
Do you wanna go Moroccan? Then this kind of interior would also work well in a Bohemian setting. Use the iconic rugs and carpets as well as metal credenzas.
What about boho chic? These days, this is a remarkably trendy style. Here, you will find quality materials, textured surfaces, the most glamorous pieces, lamps, pendants and crystals, even faux vintage items.
Green boho is something that’s sustainable and is wary of nature preservation. People who prefer this sub-style choose to use natural materials like silk, cotton, leather, stone, tiles, brick and metal accents. Form a kaleidoscope of these elements and you’d be achieving the ultimate Bohemian look.
Another boho style is the Bohemian hippie. This is enthusiastic, bright and still original. Use funky florals, patterns, animal prints, fringe, lace, textiles and detailed accents.
Tags: bohemian interiors, bohemian style, Boho, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Bohemian: Anything But Basic
Saturday, January 7th, 2017
The floral curtains here served as the beautiful backdrop to this Antebellum piece by FFDM.
Curtains are, indeed, a lot more than a window dressing. They are the fundamental elements that could make or break the atmosphere in a room. They are practical as well as they can offer warmth, privacy, even energy-saving benefits.
The confusion when choosing the right curtain probably begins as you take a look at the number of available patterns, fabrics and styles. Picking the right one could take time. Begin by looking at fabulous homes in websites, books and magazines on interior design.
Read about the buying advice of interior designers so you can make an informed decision.
Ready Made
If you want to make a quick update in your living room or bedroom because you have a limited timeframe, then you could immediately hang curtains which you bought straight from the fabric shop.
With ready made options numbering thousands, there is no longer any need to ask for help from fitters and curtain makers. All you’d do is to take the necessary window measurements then buy the ones that suit those numbers that you recorded.
There are downsides, however, in buying ready made stuff. One is that they are limited in number because you have to find the right measurements. The style that you particularly like for your window might end up not fitting your window frames.
You also have to place a pole or track in order to suit the curtain size that’s the closest to your measurements.
Custom Made
If you choose to have your curtains customized, then find a good tailor that would finish this task. You have the leeway to shop for the materials that you want, in the color that you want and dictate the style that you need for your home. This is especially true when you’re decorating a traditional home.
Find a custom made curtain maker so that you can be confident that the finished curtains would fit your windows.
Another benefit to having a customized curtain is that you’ll have a wider choice with regard to fabrics. This also means that you have a greater way of personalizing your curtain style. Use some tiebacks, additional lining and headings for a more bespoke look.
A probable disadvantage of having custom curtains is that you need to wait a bit longer before you can take them home. The usual lead time is at two to three weeks depending on fabric availability.
In the long term, though, custom curtains offer more value for your money. Since this is so, you need to find a design that won’t easily become outdated or one that you won’t get tired of that easily.
If cost ever becomes a problem, then you can always find a fabric that’s less expensive. Regardless of the fabric price, though, be sure to find quality service with regard to the maker that you choose.
Ask your loved ones about any curtain maker that they can recommend.
Eyelets
These are simple, contemporary aesthetic with pleats. This curtain will require little space on each side of the window.
Curtain Headings
The curtain’s heading can have a huge impact on the overall look of the curtains. This is the way which the curtain is attached to the track or pole.
Pinch or French Pleats
These are the headings that are made by fusing three pleats right at the top of the curtains. These are more expensive than all the other choices since they are quite laborious to make. They are worth your extra investment, though.
Pinch pleats offer a tailored finish with curtains getting into the elegant folds. These are great for formal living rooms.
Pinch Pleats
These are single pleats that are narrow and are forming neat folds. They offer less structure when compared to pinch pleats but they are still attractive because of their uniformity.
Tags: curtain, curtains, decorating with curtains, decorative curtain, designing with curtains, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Choosing the Right Curtain – It’s Not A Mere Window Dressing
Friday, January 6th, 2017
Accessories Uttermost Citrus Study Hand Painted Art, S2 36109
The kitchen is a wonderful space where the family can gather, eat decent, home cooked meals, and even welcome guests. Yet homeowners get too busy that they oftentimes neglect to decorate the kitchen walls.
Blank walls in kitchens are fairly common. If you want to stand out and be different, then try to see which wall décor would catch your attention. See which suggestions will inspire you the most –
Hang Plates
One of the most unique and fun ways to decorate kitchen walls is to hang some decorative plates. If you don’t have a collection yet, then it’s time to collect them now.
Plate décor is a fashionable way to make a statement in your kitchen – and it is here to stay. There are various ways that you can interpret this trend. Many times you would see decorative plates with different designs and colors. Each plate could have its own pattern, too.
Get creative in hanging these plates. Play with the width and height of the patterns.
Wall Themes
If you still don’t have a particular theme for your décor, then it’s time to define that. Choose from rustic, modern, shabby chic, or just about any interior design theme that you gravitate to.
Do you love Italian style? Then it’s time to incorporate a lot of colors and décor that are related to this design. A beautiful Tuscan kitchen is a wonderful way of creating a cozy and warm atmosphere.
Stenciling is also a wall theme of sorts. See which designs you will put on your large canvas.
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Antrim 1 Light Bronze Sconce 22600
Wall Art, Clocks and Mirrors
Each kitchen should have a clock yet not every homeowner installs one. It’s not wise to depend on the microwave timer all the time.
Hang a decorative clock (the larger the better) as a chic addition to your kitchen. There are a gazillion clock designs and styles out there. Shop for one online and make a list of the ones that you like and don’t like. Make sure that the wall clock would match the style that you have chosen.
If wall clocks aren’t your thing, then find some mirrors that will suit the kitchen design. Smaller kitchens would benefit from mirrors because they can create the illusion of a larger space.
Abstract images and artwork are pricey yet awesome additions that you can place on your walls. Find an artwork that pops and would give the heart of your home a real spark. Have you seen some metallic wall art? This is the perfect addition for any blank kitchen wall.
Reclaimed Wood and Mason Jars
Adorable collections that you can also display in your kitchen are decorative mason jars. Find some reclaimed wood or even an old window that you can install onto the wall. You will then place the mason jars there which come in all sizes, colors and shapes.
Mason jars can also be painted then filled with beautiful, fresh flowers. Get creative and once these pieces are done, hang them on the kitchen wall for a brighter and more cheerful display.
Crates and Shelves
Open shelves are a welcome addition to kitchen walls. They can add drama or a lot of character to an otherwise dull kitchen. You can pick a location where you can add these open shelves or they can be the star of the kitchen design.
Shelving does not always mean that you have to go with wood. There are other materials to choose from such as glass and metal. You can also add spotlighting so that the collections or knickknacks that you put there will be showcased and appreciated.
Wine racks are also a popular choice in sprucing up kitchen walls. They are fashionable and are highly functional as they can store your favorite wine bottles. These racks can also help you save space so it’s a trend that you should consider.
Tags: designing kitchen walls, kitchen wall design, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | Comments Off on Beautifying Kitchen Walls: 5 Choices to Look Into
Friday, January 6th, 2017
FFDM Highlands: Beige is a charming color that’s ‘in’ this year. Consider painting it on your home’s exterior.
Painting remains to be the quickest and easiest ways to add value to any home. A fresh coat of paint will not just alter the look of a home but will also hugely influence the interest of the person who will visit the home.
Whether you are thinking of painting the exterior or interior parts of your home, and whether you’re going to hire a pro or do it yourself, this project will always boil down to cost. If you want to see how much the average cost is of painting major structures, then read on. Find out how these will affect your upcoming painting project –
Exterior Painting – How Much Is It?
Just like many other projects, size and location have a huge impact on the cost of the overall project. Take into account the cost of the painting materials as well as the additional supplies, the average price in painting the exterior of a mid-sized home is at $2,394. This is an estimation that includes the cans of paint, professional labor and the supplies.
Painting your home will take a tad longer but you could save thousands in doing this. The only things that you will be paying for are the supplies, cans of paint and your time. Well, as the saying goes, time is gold so see if you would really save more if you allot hours of your schedule in finishing this painting project.
So what are the factors that affect the price of the exterior painting project?
There are many factors that can contribute to the increase or decrease of price. The biggest factors will always be the size of the home, its location and the going rate of the professional whom you hire.
Hiring a professional is pricier than doing the project on your own so if you have to rely on an expert, then consider hiring a local pro instead. This will be a bit cheaper than hiring an expert who lives hundreds of miles away from you.
Painting a bigger home also spells additional bucks. Taller homes are also expensive to paint (imagine a four-story home against a bungalow though each covers the same lot area). The former could be doubly expensive as compared to the one-story home. Remember that the painters will have to use a ladder to access the higher parts of the four-story home.
Prep work or the cleanup before the actual painting job is also a huge factor in the computation of exterior painting prices. Professional painters power wash the exteriors using hot water or pressurized cold water.
The average prep job costs anywhere from $474 to $690.
Other factors that could influence the overall price are the following –
Painting the outdoors also means planning for materials that will stand up to the harshest elements like snow, rain, hurricane and heavy winds. Find stronger paints that might be more expensive but could withstand the harshest weather elements.
Paint choice will also come down to oil or water-based type. Water-based paints are often preferred but the oil-based types are more durable. The advantages of water-based paint include –
Oil-based paints, on the other hand, have VOCs as discovered by scientists. People, when exposed to VOCs, experience nausea, dizziness and eye irritation. Given these health issues, it is best to look for the eco-friendly alternatives.
Tags: exterior painting, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, painting costs, painting expense
Posted in 2017 Trends, Color Schemes | Comments Off on Exterior Painting Costs Explained
Thursday, January 5th, 2017
CYNTHIA ROWLEY FOR HOOKER FURNITURE SOIREE SIDEBOARD: Beige proved its worth in this setting.
Selecting paint for interiors can make or break the overall appearance of a home. Also, colors can dramatically influence people’s feelings, moods and, eventually, behaviors. It is because of these reasons that you should research your choices before you even think of altering the colors of your walls.
Professional painters have the skills to paint your home or you can just roll up your sleeves and do the work yourself. Either way, there will come a time when you need to pick the right color for every room.
Here are the 5 hottest wall paint picks for this year –
Hazel
This is a delicious light blue color that’s both attractive and flexible. This is a hue that will look charming when paired with neutral accents, wooden pieces and white trim. Hazel is the right color for a homeowner who is looking to add subtlety into his home.
Shades of White
What could be safer and more popular than white among homeowners? The trick, though, is to find one that’s not too dull or bright. Any shade of white is a classic choice for any home. It is timeless and elegant and it could give your space a more relaxed and comfortable feeling.
If you’re not comfortable about white being the dominant element, then use it to freshen up your ceilings, cabinets and trim. It will also look amazing and more interesting when you pair it with silver or beige accents.
Beige – The Neutral Paint Advocate
Talk of beige, this color is quite huge this year. Use it on your walls and look how gorgeous it would be when painted on the most important rooms inside your home.
Beige is warm and cozy and it will pair well with either light or dark furnishings. There are many exciting shades of beige in the market these days so go ahead and find the one that makes your heart skip.
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Go Loud with Indigo
This is a hue that’s perfect for someone who wants to experiment or who simply wants to have fun. This is a gorgeous hue all on its own but it will even look more amazing when paired with any shade of white.
Use indigo paint to update your door or use it to create a unique accent wall. This hue is trendy and vibrant and it offers just the right amount of spunk for your home updates.
If you feel even bolder, paint the entire room with indigo. This color will serve as the foundation in decorating the rest of the rooms. Use indigo on your furniture and accents. Indigo spells liveliness and energy so be sure to use it in rooms where you need a lot of invigorating force.
Gray Is Still Hot
Gray is still a trending color this year in the interior design industry. It is dark and light depending on the tone that you use. Despite its name, gray can also be light or slightly bluish. It can pair well with many other colors – take your pick. This color is especially wonderful if you’re thinking of redesigning your bedroom this year. Gray will give it a more peaceful and serene feel as it is an attractive and delicate hue.
Giving gray an influence of blue will make it more refreshing and even water-like in its appearance. It is surely a color that will not disappoint.
Conclusion
Paint is an effective way to update the look of any home. Choosing from among these five exciting 2017 colors will make your home a sight to behold. Get a new perspective plus a new coat of paint so you would fall in love with your habitat once more.
Tags: color options, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, paint options, wall colors
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101 | Comments Off on 5 Safe Paints for Your Home This 2017
Thursday, January 5th, 2017
FFDM Ancestry: Freshen up the room with fresh fruits, drawn curtains, and ample lighting.
It’s still winter and you’re probably aching to see daisies and blossoming tulips, the ray of yellow sunshine and other things that herald spring. If you’ve been feeling this way for quite sometime, then don’t fret, you won’t have to wait for the next season to enjoy the beauty of nature.
It’s time for a change of décor. Here are some tips to freshen up your home even during the cold winter months –
Art Rotation
You might have hung some artworks on the walls and they have stayed there for like forever. Well, now that you’re aching to have a little change in your habitat, then it’s time to rotate them.
Don’t get the habit of hanging everything on the wall. This one-day-decorating fever should, instead, be categorized into summer and winter collections. Hang the pastel-colored pieces or those that have a lighter hue during spring and summer. The deeper-colored paintings and those that used oil as a medium should be in storage during these months. Bring them out only during the fall and winter seasons.
This is an effective way to give a new vigor to your art collections plus you’d give guests a little something to look at when they pay you a visit.
Soothe with Fragrance
Colors aren’t the only things that make spring exciting. This is also a fragrant season and the perfect time to bring in some invigorating aromas indoors.
Scents are powerful tools that have a profound effect on people’s moods. So, infuse some scent to your decorative candles, diffusers, incense and fresh plants and flowers. These can offer an exciting feeling throughout your space.
Now here’s a quick floral tip – buy some inexpensive flowers in a bouquet then split these flowers according to color. Place each bunch in smaller vases throughout your living area.
Uttermost Accessories Moth Orchid Planter Botanicals 60039
Update Your Boudoir
Why not update your bedding for spring (though snow is falling outdoors)? Hide the heavy, winter comforters and start bringing out the linens complete with coverlets for a little color. Start bringing in the floral-inspired spreads and the colorful solids.
And, oh, don’t forget the delicious accent pillows for comfort and added style.
Update the Lighting
It’s also the time to update the light bulbs around your home. If there are bulbs that are no longer working properly, then start shopping for a replacement. Plus, winter months require more lighting so swap the 60-watt bulbs with three-way bulbs instead. This can make a huge difference in terms of flexibility.
Find the energy-efficient bulbs, they may cost more than the standard bulb but they will surely last longer and would even help cut down your electric bills.
Let the Light In
During winter, it is common to have dusty windows unnoticed. Take advantage of the first days of spring (go ahead and pretend that the season has changed) and give your windows a gentle wash.
Your habitat will get more lighting as you do this. Pull back also the dark window treatments that kept you snuggling with your loved ones during winter. Add a valance or shade for a little color. You can also replace the window treatments with white sheer or ecru for a more elegant look.
Time for New Accessories
Just like changing your outfit every season, you can also begin early when it comes to your home. Dress up your home just as you would yourself. Search for accent pillows but, this time, find the ones that are bright-colored. It’s time to store the winter throws and start replacing them with the more colorful ones.
Lastly, bring out the spring-colored candles and vases to boost your living room and dining room table.
Tags: fresh up rooms, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, updating rooms
Posted in Interior Design 101 | Comments Off on Freshen Up Rooms Like It’s Spring
Wednesday, January 4th, 2017
CYNTHIA ROWLEY FOR HOOKER FURNITURE VARICK 2 OVER 2 SOFA: The concrete flooring served as a beautiful backdrop for the colorful furnishings.
What’s your opinion of a concrete home? Does it remind you of a combat zone or a place that’s unconventionally beautiful? Majority of concrete houses look like the conventional wood frame houses today. Though this is the case, there is a lot more to concrete than meets the eye.
Concrete homes with concrete flooring are constructed using different methods. Places that are within coastal areas and are storm prone are often constructed with block concrete walls. More builders are now picking ICF or foam-insulated concrete forms for an added insulation value. These are also a lot easier to use.
Other approaches are RCF or removable concrete forms and cast-in-place, there are also the panel systems and the sprayed-on or aerated concrete.
Concrete Flooring Benefits
The leading benefit of concrete flooring is its strength. This is the kind of flooring that can easily withstand a 250-mile an hour gust of winds. It can also take wind-borne debris. If you’re in an area that’s visited by storm most months of the year, then concrete walls and flooring should be your first choice.
Those who live in tornado and hurricane zones would also benefit to have concrete walls and flooring.
Another benefit of concrete flooring is its energy efficiency. This floor has a thermal mass and tight seals at the joints. This means that you can keep cold or warm air in. Extreme temperatures are also kept at bay.
Quash That Concrete Notion
When you first thought of concrete flooring, you probably thought of prison-like or cold. Yet concrete has the amazing capability of taking on color as well as a polished sheen. This is why it easily became a leading choice for many modern, industrial and contemporary design enthusiasts.
Concrete is also sustainable, which means, using an existing slab of concrete could mean saving money and other resources on consuming new materials.
Concrete does not need to be solely used in garages or basements. As soon as it is sanded, polished then sealed, it would already look refined even in a traditional kitchen. Just layer this with Oriental rug, furnishings and rustic fixtures and you’re good with your setup.
Concrete flooring also calls for easier maintenance. All you have to do with such is to mop it once each week using soapy water. You can also install a baseboard so that the crevices won’t smudge during mopping. This will also make your option look more intentional and finished.
Concrete flooring is also economical. Its cost is just $2 to $6 for every square foot. You would easily love this flooring material because of its tonal uniqueness, aggregates and tiny cracks which render a stone-like feel.
The more elaborate types cost about $5-8 per square foot. You could stain the concrete floor as this is a popular option these days. You can stain using various colors as well as different application methods. Combine these to come up with a finish that’s unique to your home.
Concrete flooring can also offer other decorative effects such as grid pattern and scoring. These styles are still quite impressive as they can have a high-gloss seal, thus, the floor can be made to look like limestone. Use an acrylic sealer to achieve a wet look.
Concrete flooring is also versatile. It is used in both interior and exterior applications. The silicone-based sealers are best used to keep away from wet look.
Concrete will also look nice with stone veneer walling. This can accentuate the rustic style.
Lastly, concrete flooring that’s been polished and well-maintained could easily last a century (even more). It’s time that you appreciate the beauty of this aged and even probably cracked flooring. Don’t want those flaws? Then hide them using a beautiful carpet or area rug.
Tags: concrete flooring, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Flooring Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Concrete Floor: Battlefield Replica or an Industrial Beauty?
Wednesday, January 4th, 2017
FFDM Fusion: Blue is the prominent color in this ensemble.
Not a lot of people are born as color experts. Of course, not everyone can walk into a room and instantly know what to do with the space. When it comes to making choices on color – especially when decorating – people rely on guides that they read from interior design websites, magazines or books. While this may appear as a gargantuan task, it is not an impossible one. The great news is this – you don’t have to automatically resort to the safest colors such as beige, cream or white just so you can decorate your home.
Finding Color Inspiration
It is not difficult to look for things or events that would inspire you. What you need to do is to first look at yourself. Take in what you see then figure out what you also want in terms of design. If you’re still clueless, try thinking of the things and activities that you are most comfortable with. What sort of clothes do you actually love to wear each day?
As you begin to list down your favorite colors or the ones that you most often gravitate to, you would begin to realize what inspires you. Some people who are contemplative in life choose blue because this defines their psyche. These people love being surrounded by the blue skies, the sea and marine life. And these people also naturally gravitate towards styles that are similar to close to beach life.
Another means to find your color inspiration is to travel a bit and check on some textile shops. If most of your clothes are mostly wool, natural fiber or cotton, then it is probable that you would also veer towards any of these when you bring in your upholstered pieces.
Those who love burnt oranges, golds and reds are also those who find solace in rustic or traditional design.
Other obvious examples of inspiration sources are artworks such as paintings, crockery and fashions.
Where to Find Insights on Color. CYNTHIA ROWLEY FOR HOOKER FURNITURE CURIOSITY CREDENZA
A Whole New Perspective
It might take you longer to pick a color but that’s not totally a bad thing. You could even use this to your advantage because it can be a fun process depending on how you go about looking for your color inspiration.
How about walking through a clothes store then, this time, with a fresh pair of eyes, see colors in every bit and piece. You would soon realize that you’re becoming more aware of colors and how they can even affect your emotions. This is you, subconsciously choosing your preferred colors each time. This is a guaranteed way of defining your color scheme early on.
There is also a shortcut method of finding out what color schemes to consider. You can visit a library and borrow as many books and magazines on design as you can. See if you can also get your hands on some decorating resources.
As you read along, use Post It notes as you mark the pages that inspire you. As soon as you have read a few, you will soon see what style you prefer most. As you go back to those marked pages, you will realize that you probably gravitate towards French Provincial or to Gothic. If you’re uneasy with the other colors, then just leave them be.
It’s Time to Paint
Now that you have a good idea on what you want, it pays to start small. Experiment with a small room such as a bathroom or a powder room at first. if you like what you see as you paint the walls there, then you can carry the same color throughout your home or at least a complementary color to your chosen hue.
Selecting a color also means knowing what mood to evoke. Learn about color psychology and the effects of lighting on colors as well.
Tags: inspirations on color, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Where to Find Insights on Color
Tuesday, January 3rd, 2017
If you’re thinking that interior design is mere aesthetics, then you have a pretty limited definition for this term. More than visual beauty, interior design is searching for the creative solutions for homes, commercial spaces, offices, hotels, etc. This must also be a place where safety, health and the well-being of occupants are given high priority.
Interior design is a versatile profession where the specialist researches, analyzes and integrates knowledge into the whole creative process. The clients’ resources and needs are also given importance in order to fulfill the project goals.
The Profession That Is Interior Design
The interior designer is a professional who has undergone a rigorous process of examination, experience and education. This expert is also good in assisting clients and in helping them realize their goals of building an environment that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasant.
Interior designers are also required to have liability insurance. They are encouraged to participate in various ongoing professional development programs or training. Above all, they are required to uphold a high code of ethics as well as a set of professional standards.
Do You Have What It Takes?
This question now stands – do you have what it takes to become an interior designer. Are you always getting compliments with regard to your taste in interior design? Are you passionate about arranging furniture and in putting up décor? If you answered yes to at least one of these questions, then you could establish a career in interior design.
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture Serendipity Console Table sits beautifully in the corner right by the staircase.
Right before you make a life-changing decision, though, you need to consider a few things about the world of design. First, know that interior designers also face challenges in their career. Some of such challenges might not be appealing to you while there are others that might excite you. And there are also challenges that open doors of opportunity which you never thought even existed.
What You Would Do
Interior designers can work on both residential and commercial projects. They draw upon their learning on function, aesthetics and safety in order to enhance a space. Most have a design specialty that is attractive to certain niches.
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projected that interior design careers are fiercest in the years 2008 till 2018. A lot of talented people are now quickly getting attracted to this field.
There are a few states that ask for a professional license among their interior designers. This license should come from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification.
If you’re an aspiring interior designer, then make sure that you finished at least two years in college and have at least four years of work experience. If these requirements are not met, there is one other way to do it and this is to hold at least four years of post-secondary education major in design.
If you live in one of the states that require a license, then it would be a good idea for you to become a member of a society or national council for interior designers. This will be a solid backup to your education and experience, thus, giving you more chances of establishing a profitable career.
It also pays that you practice on your communication skills. Interior designers work one-on-one with their clients as well as service providers and contractors. If you can deal with different types of personality and are a good listener, then you will be an effective interior designer.
Interior designers also need management skills since deadlines are a part of this profession. There would also be moments when multiple projects will be handed to you so planning and management skills are of the essence.
Tags: designer for homes, home designer, interior designer, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in The Interior Designer | Comments Off on Who Is The Interior Designer?
Tuesday, January 3rd, 2017
Hooker Furniture Living Room Sebastian Sofa (with 2 Recliners)
Upholstered furniture go through the same rigors as cabinetry and other pieces of furniture. The only difference is that you may not always notice the dust that settles on upholstered pieces. Brushing or vacuuming every week in order to remove dust as well as avoid colors becoming dull is one of the many effective ways of caring for leather and upholstered pieces.
Why Care for Leather?
In the first place, why? Leather is a beautiful, natural product. This is one of the few materials that allows the piece to breathe while delivering warm and unique characteristics.
Leather beautifully displays traces of where it came from – the scars, brands, growth and creases show it all. These add character to the couch and do not affect the overall quality of the furniture piece.
Leather is resilient, durable and has a patina that develops over time which increases its appeal.
Tips in Leather Care
Begin by protecting your leather couch from direct sunlight. It is best to use leather pieces indoors or any area that would allow them to sit without being touched by the rays of sunlight.
Dust can be removed from semi-aniline, protected or pigmented leather through vacuuming. You can then follow this process by wiping them with a slightly damp piece of cloth. You can also use mild soap if grease has accidentally touched your leather piece.
Follow up with buffing using a soft, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing or wetting excessively.
Next, it is common for leather to have natural oils and perspiration coming from the hair and skin. These can have an effect on the leather couch’s finish. The degree of this said effect can vary from one person to the next. Cleaning is best done where the bare hands, arms and heads usually rest. Do this a couple of times each week.
You can also use leather protection cream to better protect your leather couch. Apply it to both new and used leather from two to four times every year. There are also soft leather cleaners which can be used more often as needed. When cleaning, make sure that you don’t rub the cleaner, instead, use a soft, wiping motion.
Another problem with leather couch ownership is when ink marks stain the lovely piece. Find a ball point pen ink remover that could penetrate more deeply than the usual cleaners. When the stain is a tad more serious, it may require you to ask for professional help.
When it comes to hide food, here’s a word of caution – do not use it to polish your leather couch. Instead, use the usual leather creams and cleaning solutions.
Nubuck, suede, and aniline leathers ask for specific care since they all lack protective coating. Find products that were specifically manufactured for these kinds of leather finish. Make sure that you follow the cleaning instructions thoroughly. Be sure to test on an unseen part of the couch before you begin the cleaning process.
Another warning when it comes to owning leather furniture is to keep it away from any heat source. Keep a distance of 30 cm from the leather couch and the radiator (or any other heat source).
As for liquids, quickly find some absorbent paper towels then dab the area where there was a spillage. Use clean towels to completely dry the area afterwards.
Plump the back and arm cushions as well as the seats and fixed pads so that they maintain their shape for years. Should you notice any crease especially on the seat area, be sure to smooth them out so that it won’t become a permanent problem.
Lastly, just be gentle when sitting on your leather couch so that it will be with you for a long, long time.
Tags: caring for leather, leather care, leather couch, leather furniture, leather furniture care, leather maintenance, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
Posted in Furniture, Home Maintenance, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | Comments Off on Caring for That Leather Couch
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